Archer Aviation has taken a decisive step in the development of its Midnight aircraft by successfully completing a piloted flight as part of its flight test program. This event marks the beginning of a new phase in the validation of its eVTOL electric aircraftelectric aircraft, consolidating both technical and regulatory progress.
Technical validation of the Midnight aircraft with piloted flight
During the flight, the Midnight model reached speeds of up to 200 km/h and an altitude exceeding 450 meters. Unlike previous previous tests, this phaseUnlike previous tests, this phase includes conventional takeoffs and landings, known as CTOLs, an aspect that adds operational value to the aircraft. The ability to perform both vertical and runway maneuvers has been noted as a critical advantage in urban and mixed scenarios.
Midnight piloted flight with CTOL. Source: Archer
Focus on safety and control
The operation was conducted by Jeff Greenwood, chief test pilot, who noted the fidelity of the aircraft’s behavior to the simulators. Greenwood, with a distinguished career at Bell Textron and as a former U.S. Marine, has been instrumental in the cockpit evaluation and component selection.
The data collected will allow further fine-tuning of the flight control model, as well as further work on aerodynamic stability. These efforts are aimed at facilitating commercial certification in the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
Operational flexibility for real-world scenarios
The Midnight’s design design integrates a robust landing gear that enables both vertical and conventional operations. This versatility has been highlighted by regulatory bodies and potential customers as a key operational necessity for the adoption of electric aircraft in advanced air mobility.
With this breakthrough, Archer reinforces its leadership in the manned electric aircraft sector, paving the way for future commercial operations.
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Source and photo: Archer