Archer Aviation and United Airlines have announced their intention to start services between O’Hare International Airport (KORD) and Vertiport Chicago (43IL). Vertiport Chicago is located relatively close to the city centre in the Medical District and bills itself as North America’s largest VTOL facility. It is anticipated that flight time will be in the order of 10 minutes which the two companies say compares very favourably with surface travel alternatives which can be in excess of an hour in peak times.
Commenting on the announcement, United Airlines Ventures President Michael Leskinen said, “Both Archer and United are committed to decarbonising air travel and leveraging innovative technologies to deliver on the promise of the electrification of the aviation industry. Once operational, we’re excited to offer our customers a more sustainable, convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation during their commutes to the airport.”
The announcement was also welcomed by the city’s Mayor, Lori Lightfoot. “This exciting new technology will further decarbonise our means of transportation, taking us another step forward in our fight against climate change. I’m pleased that Chicago residents will be among the first in the nation to experience this innovative, convenient form of travel.”
While the announcement is certainly an interesting one, it must also be recorded what a fine VTOL facility Meigs Field would have made prior to the Daley administration’s act of vandalism.
