Archer Aviation (ACHR) Eyes FAA Approval and Ramps Production Ahead of 2025 Commercial Launch

Business Insider

7 days ago

Archer Aviation (ACHR) is moving closer to launching its first commercial electric air taxi service, backed by expanding partnerships, reaching new test milestones, and holding over $1 billion in cash. While revenue remains at zero and FAA certification is pending, the company is lining up the necessary pieces to begin passenger flights in 2025. In this piece, we examine the milestones already achieved and what still lies ahead for the company ahead of its first commercial flight.
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Milestones Already Achieved
Only recently, Archer's Midnight aircraft completed a successful test flight in Abu Dhabi under desert heat, humidity, and dust, a key step in demonstrating its ability to perform in real-world conditions. UAE officials and regulators observed the flight, adding institutional weight to the progress. The test supports Archer's Launch Edition program with Abu Dhabi Aviation, which aims to introduce a fleet of Midnight aircraft as air taxis in the capital later this year.
To support this rollout, Archer also secured an agreement with Jetex, a global aviation services provider. The two companies plan to retrofit 40 terminals across more than 30 countries to accommodate Midnight aircraft. Their focus begins in the UAE, where Jetex will provide infrastructure, passenger logistics, and concierge support. This enables Archer to skip costly vertiport construction and expand more quickly across key markets.
In the U.S., Archer has partnered with United Airlines (UAL), which has placed a $1 billion order, and is also working with the Department of Defense and defense-tech firm Anduril. These collaborations not only help fund operations but also open doors across commercial, defense, and international markets.
Financially, Archer reported a Q1 2025 GAAP net loss of $93.4 million, down from $116.5 million the year prior. It ended the quarter with $1.03 billion in cash and added another $300 million through a direct equity raise. Production is on track to scale to two Midnight aircraft per month by year-end at its Georgia facility.
Milestones Left Before Commercial Flights
To begin commercial service, Archer still needs FAA Type Certification for its Midnight aircraft. This is the final major regulatory step. The aircraft must complete flight and systems testing under the FAA's Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) process, which is expected to run for 9 to 12 months. At the same time, Archer is scaling production at its Georgia facility. The company is targeting two aircraft per month by the end of the year, a move that supports supply chain readiness and prepares it for early-stage fleet deployment.
Several regulatory boxes are already checked. Archer holds Part 135 certification, which allows it to operate as an air carrier, and Part 141 approval for pilot training. That gives the company a head start on preparing flight crews ahead of launch. It's also working with partners to get vertiport infrastructure and ground operations in place across key launch markets.
The list of what's left is short. Archer is not yet flying passengers, but most of the groundwork is done. With operational approvals secured, production lines active, and pilot programs in motion, FAA Type Certification is now the final item on the list.
Is Archer Aviation Stock a Good Buy?
average ACHR stock price target sits at $11.75, implying a 3.34% upside.