Archer’s Midnight eVTOL prototype takes to the skies for the first time. [Courtesy: Archer Aviation]
Key Takeaways:
Archer Aviation's Midnight electric air taxi successfully completed its inaugural uncrewed hover test flight, marking a critical step in its flight test and certification program.
The company aims to begin piloted "for-credit" FAA testing in early 2024, with commercial operations planned by 2025 in major U.S. cities via a partnership with United Airlines, and potential launch in the UAE by 2026.
Midnight is a five-seat eVTOL optimized for short (20-50 mile) rapid-turnaround flights, designed to be cost-competitive with ground rideshare services.
Archer is also constructing a large eVTOL production plant in Georgia with Stellantis and has secured a significant $142 million contract with the U.S. Air Force for Midnight deliveries and military applications.
Archer Aviation’s Midnight electric air taxi is finally airborne.
After receiving a special airworthiness certificate from the FAA to begin testing the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) design in August, a noncomforming Midnight prototype has completed its inaugural test flight.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
