Archer Aviation has appointed retired Brigadier General Cristiano Tartaglione as chief operating officer of its United Arab Emirates operations. Based in Abu Dhabi, he will oversee operational infrastructure, regulatory alignment and the development of local teams as the company prepares to launch commercial electric air taxi services across the region.

Tartaglione brings more than 30 years of experience from the Italian Air Force, having commanded multinational operations, led advanced maintenance programmes and amassed over 3,500 flight hours. He also served as Italy’s defence attaché to the UAE, where he gained diplomatic experience and built relationships within regional defence and aviation sectors. In his post-military career, he advised aerospace companies on strategic development across the Middle East and Europe.

He says: “I am honoured to join Archer Aviation at such a critical stage of growth as we prepare for commercial launch. My focus will be on driving operational readiness, regulatory alignment and long-term value as we launch safe and scalable air mobility services in the region.”

The move underscores Archer’s intention to deliver sustainable urban mobility in the UAE. The company is working with regulators and partners to build the Emirates’ first commercial air taxi network. Its eVTOL aircraft Midnight is expected to cut car journeys of up to 90 minutes down to 20 minutes or less.

Archer recently received design approval from the GCAA for the conversion of the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal helipad into a hybrid heliport for helicopters and eVTOL aircraft. UAE general manager Dr Talib Alhinai said: “Cristiano joining the team is a big step forward for Archer Aviation's mission in the UAE. His leadership and expertise will be critical as we aim to bring the region's first commercial electric air taxi services to life, supporting the nation's vision for futuristic and sustainable transportation.”