IndiGo to introduce electric air taxis for Delhi-Gurugram route by 2026

IndiGo, the flagship carrier under InterGlobe Enterprises, is set to revolutionize urban transportation in India by introducing electric air taxis between Delhi and Gurugram by 2026. Partnering with Archer Aviation, a US-based company specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, IndiGo aims to provide a swift and sustainable mode of travel for commuters.

The collaboration entails the procurement of 200 eVTOL aircraft from Archer Aviation, designed to carry four passengers alongside a pilot. These aircraft, resembling helicopters but with reduced noise levels and enhanced safety features, are projected to significantly cut down travel time between Delhi's Connaught Place and Gurugram to a mere 7 minutes.

This ambitious venture comes with an estimated cost of USD 1 billion, marking a significant investment in the future of urban air mobility in India. The initiative isn't limited to the Delhi-Gurugram route; similar services are planned for Mumbai and Bengaluru, underscoring the commitment to addressing urban congestion and enhancing connectivity across major metropolitan areas.

Archer Aviation's Founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, expressed optimism regarding the certification process for the eVTOL aircraft, currently underway with the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Once certified, the company will proceed with obtaining approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India, paving the way for operational commencement by 2026.

The cost of these short-distance flights is estimated to range between ₹2,000 to ₹3,000, offering commuters a viable alternative to ground transportation. The five-seater eVTOL aircraft, equipped with six battery packs, boasts rapid charging capabilities, enabling quick turnaround times between flights.

In preparation for the launch, discussions are underway regarding infrastructure requirements, including vertiports or launchpads, as well as partnerships with municipalities and real estate considerations. Additionally, plans are in motion to establish a manufacturing facility in the US, with future prospects of expanding production capacity and potentially manufacturing aircraft within India.

This strategic collaboration between IndiGo and Archer Aviation heralds a new era in urban mobility, aligning with India's vision for sustainable transportation solutions and enhancing accessibility for its burgeoning urban population.