Archer Aviation Soars on FAA Win: Is ACHR Stock a Good Buy?

Archer Aviation (ACHR) stock surged on the FAA's announcement of its eVTOL Integration Pilot Program, a key milestone for the electric air taxi industry. The program will accelerate real-world eVTOL aircraft operations in the US, with trials expected to begin in 2026. Archer's participation builds on its partnership with United Airlines and will focus on its Midnight aircraft, designed to revolutionize urban transportation. While the pilot program accelerates development timelines, Archer faces hurdles including obtaining FAA certification and proving commercial viability.

Archer Aviation (ACHR) stock experienced a 4.2% increase on Monday, closing above $9 per share, following the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) announcement of its eVTOL Integration Pilot Program Forget the eVTOL Pilot Program Buzz, Here Is Archer Aviation’s Real Flight Path to Massive Gains^[1]. The program, aimed at fast-tracking real-world testing of air taxi operations across U.S. cities and airlines, is set to begin trials in 2026. Archer's participation in this initiative underscores its commitment to revolutionizing urban transportation.

The program, established via an Executive Order in June, seeks to demonstrate the safety, quietness, and scalability of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. Archer Aviation's involvement in this federal initiative builds on its partnership with United Airlines (NASDAQ:UAL) and will focus on its Midnight eVTOL aircraft Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation to Join in White House-Led Electric Air Taxi Program^[2]. The Midnight aircraft, designed for urban air mobility, has logged hundreds of test flights, including a record 55-mile piloted journey in August 2025 Archer plans Midnight eVTOL trial operations under US federal trial program^[3].

While the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program accelerates development timelines, Archer faces hurdles including obtaining FAA certification and proving commercial viability. The program offers valuable data and community buy-in but is not a revenue-generating breakthrough. Instead, Archer's stock merits a buy for long-term investors due to its industry leadership, robust partnerships, financial strength, and imminent commercial launches.

Key Takeaway
While risks loom, Archer's preeminent position mitigates them. As the company gears up for international commercial launch by the end of 2025 and U.S. entry in 2026, its blend of innovation, partnerships, and financial muscle makes ACHR a compelling long-term buy.