United Airlines has announced plans to launch eVTOL flights in the San Francisco Bay Area, building on a 2022 agreement with Eve Air Mobility to purchase up to 200 of its four-passenger aircraft. On June 14, the companies said they are now working with city and state officials, as well as infrastructure providers, to prepare an air taxi network right in the backyard of two of Eve’s rivals, Joby and Archer, which are developing similar aircraft in Silicon Valley.
This week’s announcement did not specify locations for the flights in Eve’s all-electric vehicle, which will have a range of around 60 miles, although United has indicated it wants to provide direct connections to its hub airports. The manufacturer, which is backed by Brazilian airframer Embraer, expects to complete type certification in 2026.
United Backs Two eVTOL Horses: Eve and Archer
Last year, United invested $15 million in Eve. The major carrier also holds provisional orders for up to 200 of Archer’s Midnight eVTOL vehicles and has announced plans with that company to launch services in New York and Chicago.
“Urban air mobility has the potential to revolutionize how United customers work, live, and travel,” said Michael Leskinen, president of United Airlines Ventures. “Eve’s proposed route is a critical first step towards making this all-electric and quiet commute a reality for Bay Area residents.”
According to Eve, the planned air taxi services will lead to significant recruitment of pilots and aircraft service technicians. The company says operators will benefit from the global product and customer support capability of Embraer, which makes airliners and business jets.
“Our shared goal is to provide residents and visitors to the San Francisco Bay Area with efficient and cost-competitive transportation in one of the most densely populated urban areas in the U.S.,” said Eve’s co-CEO, Andre Stein. “The Bay Area is perfect for eVTOL flights, given its size, traffic, focus on sustainability, innovation, and commitment to add other options for mobility.”
