Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen is reportedly set to join eVTOL manufacturer Archer Aviation this summer. [Courtesy: CNW Group/WestJet]
Key Takeaways:
Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen is expected to join Archer Aviation after departing the FAA, a move anticipated to significantly aid the company in certifying its Midnight eVTOL air taxi due to his extensive regulatory and operational expertise.
Archer has completed the final assembly of its Midnight eVTOL, with flight tests planned for this summer, aiming for FAA certification by late 2024 to launch air taxi routes with United Airlines in Chicago by 2025.
Nolen's transition mirrors a similar strategic hiring by rival Joby Aviation and highlights the importance of leveraging experienced regulatory leadership for advanced air mobility companies navigating the certification process.
Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer Archer Aviation has been a major beneficiary of acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen’s leadership on modern aviation technology, like the company’s air taxis.
But Nolen, who is departing the agency this summer, may soon take that relationship to new heights.
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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.
