The programme aims to establish a pathway for introducing electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, representing the first new category of aircraft to be introduced in the United States in nearly 80 years.

Pilot programme to support early operations

The initiative is intended to enable collaboration between industry, regulators and local authorities to develop operational frameworks for the safe deployment of electric air taxi services.

Under the programme, Archer will work with partners including the Texas Department of Transportation, the Florida Department of Transportation and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to prepare for early operations of its Midnight aircraft.

Preparations will include the development of local operating teams, infrastructure and operational procedures required to support the introduction of the aircraft.

Archer has indicated that early operations could begin in the selected states as soon as the second half of 2026.

Midnight aircraft designed for urban mobility

Archer’s Midnight is a piloted electric air taxi designed to carry up to four passengers. The aircraft incorporates 12 engines and propellers and is designed with multiple redundant systems aimed at achieving safety levels comparable with commercial airliners.

The aircraft is also designed to produce lower noise and emissions compared with traditional helicopters.

The company’s longer-term objective is to provide short urban flights capable of replacing ground journeys of 60 to 90 minutes, potentially reducing travel times and congestion in major metropolitan areas.

Archer is also preparing for planned air taxi operations in Los Angeles in support of the 2028 Olympic Games.