A few weeks ago, Archer Aviation announces plans to start operations in South Korea, while expressing excitement as it obtains FAA certification, an important approval to begin commercial flights in the United States. With this certification, Archer joins a select group of two air cab companies worldwide.
FAA Certification for Archer Aviation
Archer Aviation, based in Santa Clara, California, has been a pioneer in eVTOL development, achieving recognition both in its home country and internationally. In a recent update to its investors, Archer reported that its flagship aircraft, the eVTOL Midnight, had received a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, meeting all safety requirements necessary to begin flight testing.
[post_relacionado]With special FAA certification and backed by investments from giants such as United Airlines, Stellantis and the U.S. Air Force, Archer has been expanding its global presence. In the fall of 2023, the company announced plans to launch air cab services in the United Arab Emirates and later in India, consolidating its position with a deal valued at $500 million in the UAE.
Last week, Archer Aviation and KaKaoMobility to start commercial eVTOL operations in South Korea by 2026. This new agreement underscores Archer’s global expansion strategy as it continues to advance its plans in the United States with the new FAA certification.
Results of new alliances and additional certifications
Although Archer Air, the company’s airline subsidiary, has received FAA Part 135 certification, its Midnight aircraft has not yet obtained type certification. This achievement allows Archer Air to operate aircraft commercially, meeting strict FAA safety and operational standards. This certification demonstrates Archer’s continued progress in its collaboration with the FAA.
With Part 135 certification in place, Archer will begin operations using conventional aircraft to refine systems and procedures before bringing Midnight air cabs into service for United Airlines and other customers. Also, the company continues to work to obtain type certification for Midnight, establishing key infrastructure such as vertiports and repair and loading centers. The FAA has issued final airworthiness criteria for the Midnight aircraft, detailing the remaining tasks required for the commencement of commercial operations.
Archer’s founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, detailed, “We are honored to receive the FAA Part 135 Air Carrier and Operator Certificate, a vital step towards launching commercial operations with our Midnight aircraft. This achievement reflects our team’s dedication to safety and operational excellence as we create one of the world’s first electric air cab services, offering U.S. communities a safe, sustainable and quiet transportation solution.a.”
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Source and photo: Archer