Collaboration to integrate LEO connectivity into Midnight

Archer Aviation Inc. has announced that it will work with Starlink to bring high-speed connectivity to its Midnight electric air taxi, marking Starlink’s entry into the emerging air mobility sector and described as an industry-first collaboration.

Under the agreement, Archer will install Starlink’s low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite internet system into its Midnight aircraft and conduct testing. The system is designed to provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity during air taxi operations.

Midnight design and operational intent

Midnight is Archer’s piloted electric air taxi, designed to carry up to four passengers while producing less noise and emissions than a traditional helicopter.

The aircraft incorporates redundant systems across the platform, including 12 engines and propellers, with Archer targeting safety levels comparable to commercial airliners.

objective is to enable passengers to travel across cities in 5–15 minutes, reducing journey times relative to ground transport

Through the partnership, Starlink will provide passengers with consistent, high-speed connectivity during these short urban flights.

Beyond passenger access

In addition to passenger internet access, Archer plans to use Starlink to support communications between Midnight aircraft, pilots and engineering teams on the ground.

The companies also intend to collaborate on developing a connectivity solution to support Archer’s future development of autonomous aircraft.

Unlike traditional aircraft connectivity systems that rely on ground towers or geostationary satellites, Starlink’s LEO constellation is engineered to deliver high-bandwidth coverage at low flight altitudes and in dense urban environments.

Archer states that these characteristics are suited to next-generation aviation platforms operating at approximately 1,500 feet around cities.

Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer, said that connectivity is a required feature for Midnight and that the collaboration is intended to enable seamless, high-speed connectivity for passengers and pilots