Air taxi venture envisions 10-minute trip from Manhattan to airport

Aviation startup Archer unveiled Thursday an air taxi venture with United Airlines that it says will one day allow New York City travelers to reach area airports in 15 minutes or less. Archer brought a prototype version of its Midnight aircraft to the Big Apple Thursday to mark the announcement.

Exactly when the service will be available to New Yorkers will be determined by the US Federal Aviation Administration, which still must certify the electrically powered vehicle. But Archer still faces a number of hurdles to bring this vision to reality. 

In parallel with the FAA certification process, the company is pursuing approvals in the United Arab Emirates, where Archer is targeting a commercial launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.The Midnight, which is outfitted with 12 engines and 12 propellers, can hold a pilot and up to four passengers, plus luggage.