Archer Aviation, an air taxi maker, has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to begin commercial operations, making it the second electric air taxi company to achieve this milestone.
The FAA approval, known as Part 135 Certification, allows Archer to operate commercial flights using conventional aircraft as it continues developing its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft called “Midnight.”
“Midnight” is still awaiting Type Certification from the FAA, which certifies that an aircraft meets safety and design standards.
Archer plans to use conventional planes to refine its operating systems and procedures as it works towards certifying “Midnight.”
Receiving the Part 135 Certification is a key step for Archer in its goal of revolutionizing short-haul urban air travel with its electric air taxis. However, eVTOL companies still face technological and regulatory challenges.
Archer shares rose 3% on news of the FAA approval but are down 47% year-to-date as the sector grapples with challenges of battery technology and regulations.
SOURCE: Reuters
