The LA Olympics Confidently Introduces Its Official Air Taxi Partner

Archer has been selected as the official air taxi provider for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. According to a press release from the company, if all goes according to plan—a significant uncertainty—their Midnight eVTOL aircraft will shuttle VIPs, fans, and key personnel between major event locations, while also assisting with emergency services and security operations.

A Leading Contender in the Air Taxi Industry with FAA Approval and Expanding Networks

Archer stands out as one of the more credible contenders in the emerging air taxi industry, being one of only two companies—alongside Joby Aviation—to obtain the FAA’s final airworthiness criteria (though not yet full certification) for its Midnight aircraft. The company recently revealed possible routes for a future service in New York City and has already announced plans for proposed air taxi networks in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

Archer’s previously announced plans for a Los Angeles hub likely worked in its favor. The proposed network already featured major LA28 locations such as the Stadium in Inglewood, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, LAX, Hollywood, Orange County, and Santa Monica.

A Next-Generation Electric Air Taxi with Strong Industry Support and FAA Certification Potential

Midnight operates as an electric air taxi, piloted to carry up to four passengers while generating less noise and fewer emissions than a conventional helicopter. Equipped with 12 tilting rotors, along with a wing and tail, it lifts off vertically like a helicopter before shifting into airplane-style flight, with the rear rotors still contributing to lift. Archer says the aircraft includes “redundant, fault-tolerant systems,” which they believe will help it meet FAA certification standards comparable to those of commercial airlines.

Archer has also secured support from major aviation industry players such as Fiat Chrysler and United Airlines, along with fixed base operators like Signature Aviation and Atlantic Aviation. With this backing, the company may be one of the best-positioned in the air taxi sector to obtain the FAA “type certificate” required to carry passengers. Still, earning approval for a completely new aircraft is a complex and costly process—especially for one that belongs to an entirely new category.

Read the original article on: Engadget

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