There is a goldrush occurring in electric aerospace development. Major manufacturers like Airbus and Embraer are investing heavily in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. One manufacturer in particular is at the forefront of the fast growing segment. Archer Aviation is pushing development breakneck speed. This year the company surpassed 400 test flights, ahead of schedule.
Accelerating Certification
New aircraft under development are subject to rigorous certification prior to receiving the green light from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Archer has conducted over 400 flight tests in preperation for FAA flight testing. In particular Archer is focuusing on five key testing areas; transition flights, high rate operations, advanced landing profiles, acoustic measurment, and control optimization. These metrics are than analyzed to determine if any modifications are needed. Adam Goldstein, CEO and founder of Archer said, “When we first set our goal for 400 flights this year it was viewed as aggressive, but here we are in August already knocking it out. I’m proud of the Archer flight test team and the supporting groups that made it happen.”
Future Applications
Archer Aviation’s eVTOL aircraft will primarily operate short distance routes, essentially operating as an air taxi. In particular United Airlines will operate an air taxi service from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Vertiport Chicago, a dedicated vertical takeoff and landing facility. Vertiport Chicago is located near the Chicago loop, offering passengers easy access to downtown Chicago. In theory this will take vehicles off the roads, thus reducing rush hour traffic delays. Archer Aviation looks to replicate a similar air taxi operation in California. In July of 2024 Archer signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for eVTOL operations at California airports in partnership with Southwest Airlines. “Southwest is eager to explore the convenience Archer’s air taxis could provide Customers flying Southwest at airports in busy urban areas,” said Paul Cullen, Vice President Real Estate at Southwest Airlines. Additionally the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Air Force have tested the aircraft to evaluate it’s capabilities and possible applications for combat operations. It goes without saying that the future looks bright and exciting for eVTOL development.
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