California-based Archer Aviation has been appointed the official air taxi provider for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, marking a major milestone for the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) developer. The company’s Midnight aircraft will be deployed throughout the event to support a range of transport applications, including VIP mobility, emergency services, and security operations.
The Midnight, Archer’s flagship eVTOL, is a piloted electric air taxi capable of carrying up to four passengers and reaching speeds of 241 km/h (150 mph). Powered by six battery packs and a total of twelve electric engines, the Midnight is designed for short flights of up to 20 miles, with rapid recharging between trips. The aircraft, first unveiled in 2022, received its FAA airworthiness certification in 2024, enabling it to begin commercial operations in the U.S.
“This partnership is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the potential of electric air mobility on a global stage,” said an Archer spokesperson. “By 2028, we aim to make it possible for fans, athletes, and officials to fly across Los Angeles in 10 to 20 minutes using our zero-emission aircraft.”
Under the LA28 initiative, Archer plans to operate a network of vertiports at key venues including Los Angeles International Airport, Inglewood Stadium, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Orange County, and the LA Memorial Coliseum. The network is expected to significantly reduce ground traffic congestion and travel times during the Olympics, one of the largest global sporting events.
Although specific use cases for the Midnight during the Games have yet to be finalized, the company says the aircraft may be deployed for VIP and fan transport, event logistics, or public safety missions.
The Olympic announcement follows Archer’s recent partnership with United Airlines to develop an air taxi corridor in New York City, enabling passengers to travel from Manhattan to area airports in as little as five minutes. Together, the deals signal growing momentum for Archer’s commercial expansion and for urban air mobility as a whole.