What's Happening?
Archer Aircraft is progressing towards FAA certification for its Midnight air taxi, a four-passenger battery-electric aircraft. The company is conducting 'company-conforming' tests at Salinas Municipal Airport in California, with plans to begin FAA Type
Inspection Authorization (TIA) flight testing next year. Archer is also testing an autonomous version, the MidZero, in Abu Dhabi. The company showcased a mockup of the Midnight at the NBAA Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition in Las Vegas. Archer aims to demonstrate the aircraft's transition from vertical lift to fixed-wing cruise flight, having already achieved hover to cruise transition in June 2024. The company is working with the FAA to finalize certification criteria, with plans to scale operations by 2028, including serving as the official air taxi provider for the Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Why It's Important?
The advancement of Archer's Midnight air taxi towards FAA certification marks a significant step in the development of advanced air mobility solutions. This progress could revolutionize urban transportation by providing a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional ground transport. The successful certification and deployment of the Midnight could position Archer as a leader in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) market, potentially influencing regulatory frameworks and encouraging further investment in the sector. The initiative aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion in urban areas, offering a glimpse into the future of urban mobility.
What's Next?
Archer plans to continue its testing and certification process, with the goal of achieving FAA type certification by 2026-27. The company is preparing to participate in the FAA's electric VTOL Integration Pilot Program to expedite the deployment of advanced air mobility aircraft. Archer is also focusing on scaling operations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games, which will serve as a high-profile platform to showcase the capabilities of the Midnight air taxi. The company is assembling additional Midnight aircraft to support early operations in the UAE and for further TIA flight testing.
