Archer Aviation Aims for 2025 Commercial Launch with FAA Approval and Production Ramps

Archer Aviation is moving closer to launching its first commercial electric air taxi service, with milestones achieved in partnerships, test flights, and production. The company has secured $1 billion in funding, partnered with United Airlines, and is working with the Department of Defense. Archer is also retrofitting 40 terminals across 30 countries and plans to scale Midnight aircraft production to two per month by year-end. However, FAA certification is pending and the company still needs to complete flight and systems testing.

Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) is making significant strides towards launching its first commercial electric air taxi service, with notable milestones achieved in partnerships, test flights, and production. The company has secured $1 billion in funding, partnered with United Airlines, and is collaborating with the Department of Defense (DoD). Archer is also retrofitting 40 terminals across 30 countries and plans to scale Midnight aircraft production to two per month by year-end. However, FAA certification is pending, and the company still needs to complete flight and systems testing.

Archer's strategic partnerships and funding rounds have bolstered its financial position. The company recently completed an $850 million funding round, bringing its cash and committed capital to over $1.4 billion [1]. This funding has enabled Archer to build a strong balance sheet, crucial for its ambitious plans. The partnership with United Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the world, is a significant win for Archer, as it positions the company to leverage the airline's extensive network and operational expertise.

The company's recent test flights in Abu Dhabi have been a key milestone, validating the Midnight aircraft in real-world conditions. These test flights began in July 2025, demonstrating Archer's methodical approach to commercialization. The company's regulatory momentum is also noteworthy, with a five-country certification alliance including the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. This alliance aims to streamline global certification, positioning Archer for international deployment once it obtains FAA-type certification, targeted for late 2025 [1].

Despite these advancements, Archer still faces challenges. The company needs to complete FAA certification and finalize flight and systems testing. The competitive landscape is also fierce, with other players like Joby Aviation and Beta Technologies pursuing similar certification timelines. Archer differentiates itself through its targeted Launch Edition program for early international deployment, its unique aircraft configuration, and its diversified partnership network [1].

The company's stock has been trading around $11.40 per share as of July 15, 2025, supporting a $6.3 billion market cap for a pre-revenue company. This valuation reflects the market's pricing in the systematic de-risking of what was once considered science fiction. Archer's business model, often referred to as the "Field of Dreams" approach, is succeeding, creating value ahead of schedule [1].

In conclusion, Archer Aviation is making significant progress towards its goal of launching a commercial electric air taxi service. While challenges remain, the company's strategic partnerships, funding, and regulatory momentum position it well for future success.

References:
[1] The Globe and Mail. (2025, July 15). Archer Aviation and the Field of Dreams Business Model. Retrieved from https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/stocks/ACHR/pressreleases/33437489/archer-aviation-and-the-field-of-dreams-business-model/