Archer Aviation, a player in the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) sector, has successfully concluded the initial phase of flight testing for its Midnight EAV (electric aerial vehicles) and is now entering the speed testing phase, aiming to achieve full wing-borne transition capabilities.
According to Archer’s founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, “Midnight is progressing efficiently through our flight test program. Our team’s focus on safety and relentless execution has gotten us to where we are today and is what will allow us to achieve what no other company in the world has done to date–bring electric air taxis to cities across the U.S. and the globe.”
The upcoming speed testing phase involves a gradual increase in the EAV’s flying speeds until achieving full wing-borne transition. This milestone will demonstrate the vehicle’s capability to take off and land vertically while efficiently cruising in wing-borne flight.
Archer recently inked a Space Act Agreement with NASA to test the battery cell and system design of its electric air taxis. Goldstein highlighted that this collaboration aims to contribute valuable insights to the advanced air mobility (AAM) market. The company plans to introduce a high-performing battery pack for the Midnight air taxi, emphasizing its suitability for aerospace applications and potential usage in space.
The third phase of Archer’s test program will entail flying simulated commercial routes to showcase the operational readiness of the EAV. Simultaneously, Archer is gearing up for mass production of its electric air taxi and has secured a deal with Air Chateau International for the purchase of EAVs to operate in the United Arab Emirates.
See also: Stellantis and Archer Aviation Progress Towards High-Volume eVTOL Production Facility in Georgia
Goldstein stated, “Our team has been able to gather a tremendous amount of data and learnings over the last four years of flight testing, enabling us to advance Midnight rapidly towards certification.” He added, “Archer’s focus on safety and execution is what will allow us to achieve what no other company in the world has done to date.”
In another significant development, Lilium, a prominent EAV jet maker, recently announced a deal with ArcosJet DMCC, involving the purchase of 10 electric jets. ArcosJet DMCC is set to become the exclusive dealer for Lilium’s private jets in the region. The advancements by Archer and Lilium underscore the expanding global operations within the electric air mobility sector.
