In a landmark move for regional aviation, The Helicopter Company (THC), owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has entered into a strategic partnership with US-based Archer Aviation and Red Sea Global (RSG) to launch electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft trials in Saudi Arabia. The agreement, signed at the recent Dubai Airshow, sets the stage for the deployment of next-generation air mobility across the Kingdom.
A Three-Way Alliance for Future Skies
The Memorandum of Understanding unites three key players: THC, Saudi Arabia’s premier commercial helicopter provider; RSG, the PIF-backed developer behind giga-projects The Red Sea and AMAALA; and Archer, a leader in eVTOL technology. Together, they aim to create an operational framework for integrating Archer’s “Midnight” aircraft into RSG’s luxury tourism destinations, marking one of the first planned eVTOL deployments in the country.
The collaboration was formalized by Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC; John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG; and Nikhil Goel, CCO of Archer.
Sandbox Trials at The Red Sea
The initial phase will focus on establishing a structured sandbox environment to conduct test flights. Led by RSG, these trials will leverage the developer’s controlled airspace and sustainable infrastructure to rigorously evaluate the eVTOL aircraft. The key objectives include assessing the aircraft’s performance in real-world conditions, operational feasibility, regulatory compliance, and overall passenger experience.
This testing program is designed to demonstrate how eVTOLs can seamlessly integrate into RSG’s vision for a clean, low-emission mobility system supporting its regenerative tourism model.
Vision for Regenerative Mobility
Following the sandbox trials, the partners will analyze the findings to determine the next steps toward a potential large-scale deployment of eVTOL services. The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goal of becoming a global leader in advanced aviation and sustainable technology.
Captain Martinez stated that the partnership reinforces THC’s mission to position the Kingdom at the forefront of new aviation technologies.
John Pagano noted that the collaboration supports RSG’s commitment to pioneering cleaner and more efficient mobility solutions across its destinations.
Archer CEO Adam Goldstein added that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to preparing Saudi Arabia for eVTOL adoption and showcasing the unique capabilities of the Midnight aircraft.
About The Helicopter Company (THC)
The Helicopter Company is the first and only helicopter services provider licensed to operate commercial flights in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), THC was established to meet the growing demand for luxury tourism and air travel services. It plays a crucial role in developing Saudi Arabia’s aviation ecosystem as part of Vision 2030.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
