Goyang: Korean Air Co. has announced a partnership with U.S. advanced air mobility firm Archer Aviation Inc. to co-develop an advanced air mobility (AAM) model aimed at enhancing next-generation urban air transport capabilities.

According to Yonhap News Agency, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for this collaboration was signed on Monday during the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition 2025 at KINTEX in Goyang, located just northwest of Seoul. The agreement outlines the development of a model based on Archer Aviation's electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, known as Midnight. Initially, the focus will be on applying this technology to defense and government projects, with plans to broaden its applications in the future.

Korean Air highlighted that its extensive expertise in aircraft modification, maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) will be crucial in the joint project. "This agreement represents an important step in securing next-generation aviation mobility technology for both civilian and defense applications," stated Im Jin-kyu, head of Korean Air's aerospace division. The collaboration aims to meet government requirements and foster the growth of the domestic aviation industry.