Saudi Arabia-based The Helicopter Company (THC) has signed two agreements, one with Archer Aviation and the other with Joby Aviation, to develop, test and potentially integrate eVTOL aircraft into Red Sea Global (RSG) operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. RSG is the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and Amaala.

In the initial phase of the agreement, Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation will each work with THC and RSG to help build the foundational frameworks for their planned eVTOL operations. This includes establishing a structured sandbox environment to conduct test flights under real-world conditions to assess aircraft performance, operational feasibility, regulatory alignment, passenger acceptance and overall ecosystem readiness. They will also collaborate on testing advanced aerial technologies, exploring long-term strategic partnerships for large-scale deployment and supporting regional innovation to advance next-generation aviation systems.

As the framework progresses, RSG will lead the sandbox testing to evaluate the potential for integrating eVTOL aircraft into the company’s future operations. Given RSG’s controlled airspace, sustainable infrastructure and its position as a flagship developer under PIF, it offers a suitable platform to demonstrate the potential of advanced air mobility in supporting regenerative tourism and next-generation transportation options for the Kingdom.

Archer founder and CEO Adam Goldstein comments: “A key part of Archer’s strategy is partnering with the leading operators in each country that 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. 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.”

Separately, Joby founder and CEO JoeBen Bevirt notes: “Saudi Arabia continues to lean in on the adoption of fast, clean and quiet air travel. We continue to leverage our proven market playbook by partnering with government and local operators to streamline expansion into new regions and prepare for the launch of the next generation of air mobility.”

John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, says: “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. Partnering with THC, Archer and Joby 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.”