Archer Aviation’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft is set to redefine urban air mobility with its innovative design and eco-friendly performance. Designed to carry four passengers and one pilot, this all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle boasts a range of up to 60 miles and a cruise speed of 150 mph, offering a sustainable and efficient solution for congested cities. With distributed electric propulsion using 12 propellers and six independent battery packs, the Midnight ensures redundancy and safety, targeting a safety standard equivalent to that of commercial airliners. Its sleek design, featuring a high wing, V-tail, and panoramic windows, promises an unparalleled blend of aesthetics and passenger experience.
One of the Midnight’s most notable features is its low noise levels, a crucial consideration for urban operations. Unlike traditional helicopters, the Midnight produces only 45 dBA of sound during forward flight, making it suitable for flights between busy city centers and airports without contributing to noise pollution. Archer plans to launch commercial air taxi services beginning in 2025, following rigorous testing and FAA certification expected by the end of 2024. With its debut, the aircraft will offer an eco-conscious alternative for travelers while reducing commute times in dense urban environments, positioning itself as a major player in the growing advanced air mobility industry.
As Archer gears up for production by 2025, the company has formed strategic partnerships and secured investments from organizations like Stellantis, Boeing, and United Airlines. With a manufacturing facility in Covington, Georgia, Archer plans to start production of the Midnight aircraft at scale, targeting output estimates of up to 650 units per year, increasing to over 2,000 annually. Beyond its cutting-edge technology, Archer is also integrating advanced data solutions through its Prime Radiant program, ensuring optimized flight operations and urban airspace management. This convergence of safety, efficiency, and sustainability makes the Midnight a key step forward in achieving Archer’s vision of transforming urban air mobility across the globe.
📷: ARCHER AVIATION