PIF's THC, Archer Aviation join Red Sea Global to test electric air mobility

20/11/2025 01:47 AST

Public Investment Fund-owned The Helicopter Co., US-based Archer Aviation and Red Sea Global have signed an agreement to explore integrating electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft into RSG's operations.

The collaboration aims to develop, test and potentially incorporate Archer's eVTOL aircraft into RSG destinations, representing one of the earliest uses of the technology in the Kingdom, according to a press release.

The move supports Saudi Arabia's broader push to adopt eVTOL aircraft within its emerging mobility ecosystem. It also aligns with the PIF's mandate for THC, which was established to activate new sectors that advance Vision 2030 and deliver long-term commercial returns.

John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG, said: "At Red Sea Global, we are committed to redefining sustainable travel and setting new standards for innovation within the Kingdom's tourism and mobility sectors."

He added: "Partnering with THC and Archer, to explore the integration of eVTOL aircraft into our destinations aligns perfectly with our vision for regenerative tourism, creating cleaner, faster, and more connected ways for guests to experience the beauty of Saudi Arabia."

According to the release, the first phase of the agreement will see Archer work with THC and RSG to lay the groundwork for eVTOL operations in Saudi Arabia.

This includes creating controlled testing environment to conduct trial flights of the Midnight aircraft, assessing performance, operational viability, regulatory compliance, user acceptance and wider ecosystem readiness.

The partnership will also involve testing advanced air mobility technologies, evaluating long-term strategic opportunities for broader deployment and supporting regional innovation in next-generation aviation systems.

"A key part of Archer's strategy is partnering with the leading operators in each country who share our goals and vision, and both THC and RSG are similarly committed to ensuring that Saudi Arabia is operationally prepared to launch eVTOL aircraft," said Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer Aviation.

He added: "We look forward to working together to demonstrate how Archer's Midnight aircraft can transform travel within the Kingdom and set a regional benchmark for the future of aviation."

Arab News