Electric Aircraft
Archer Completes eVTOL Manufacturing Facility in Georgia
Archer Aviation Inc., a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has reached a significant milestone with the completion of its high-volume manufacturing facility in Covington, Georgia. This facility, known as ARC, is set to revolutionize urban air mobility (UAM) by producing sustainable, low-noise, and safe eVTOL aircraft. The completion of ARC marks a pivotal shift from research and development to commercialization, positioning Archer as a frontrunner in the emerging UAM industry.
The facility, spanning 400,000 square feet, is strategically located adjacent to the Covington Municipal Airport. It is designed to produce Archer’s Midnight aircraft, which aims to alleviate urban congestion by offering an efficient alternative to ground transportation. With production expected to begin in early 2025, ARC is poised to play a critical role in scaling eVTOL technology and meeting the growing demand for sustainable aviation solutions.
This development is not just a win for Archer but also for Georgia, which has solidified its position as a hub for aerospace innovation. The state’s robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and supportive policies have made it an ideal location for Archer’s ambitious project. The facility is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs, further boosting the local economy and reinforcing Georgia’s reputation as a leader in advanced manufacturing.
The ARC facility represents a major leap forward in the UAM sector. Urban air mobility aims to transform how people move within cities by introducing electric aircraft that can take off and land vertically, bypassing traditional ground traffic. Archer’s Midnight aircraft is designed to carry passengers quickly and quietly, offering a sustainable solution to urban congestion and pollution.
By 2030, ARC is expected to produce up to 650 aircraft annually, with long-term goals of scaling to 2,300 units per year. This level of production capacity is unprecedented in the eVTOL industry and underscores Archer’s commitment to making urban air mobility a reality. The facility’s advanced manufacturing processes, developed in partnership with Stellantis, will ensure efficient and scalable production.
Archer’s focus on sustainability aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner transportation options. The Midnight aircraft, powered by electricity, produces zero emissions during operation, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional helicopters and ground vehicles. This innovation is particularly relevant as cities worldwide grapple with the challenges of urbanization and climate change.
“The completion of this facility is a testament to the state of the industry—shifting from R&D into commercialization. With construction on ARC now complete, our team is focused on the start of production planned for early next year. From there, it’s all about execution and scaling.” – Adam Goldstein, CEO and Founder of Archer Aviation.
Archer’s collaboration with Stellantis, a global leader in automotive manufacturing, has been instrumental in the development of ARC. Stellantis has provided capital, advanced manufacturing technology, and expertise to help Archer scale its operations efficiently. This partnership highlights the synergies between the automotive and aviation industries, particularly in the realm of electric mobility.
Stellantis’ involvement ensures that ARC benefits from cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and processes. The company’s experience in high-volume production will enable Archer to meet its ambitious production targets while maintaining high-quality standards. This collaboration also positions Stellantis as a key player in the emerging UAM market, diversifying its portfolio beyond traditional automotive manufacturing. The partnership has also garnered significant support from local and state authorities. Georgia’s government has provided incentives, including tax abatements and grants, to facilitate the project. This support underscores the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and creating high-quality jobs in advanced manufacturing sectors.
The ARC facility is expected to have a profound economic impact on Covington and the surrounding region. In addition to creating up to 1,000 jobs, the facility will attract investment and spur growth in related industries. The project has already received a $65 million Regional Economic Business Assistance (REBA) grant, further highlighting its importance to the local economy.
From an environmental perspective, the Midnight aircraft represents a significant step forward in sustainable aviation. By replacing traditional ground transportation with electric aircraft, Archer aims to reduce urban congestion, lower emissions, and minimize noise pollution. This aligns with global trends towards cleaner and more efficient transportation solutions.
Georgia’s leadership in aerospace manufacturing is further reinforced by the completion of ARC. The state is home to over 800 aerospace companies, including industry giants like Delta Air Lines and Gulfstream Aerospace. Archer’s facility adds to this ecosystem, positioning Georgia as a key player in the future of aviation.
The completion of Archer’s ARC facility in Covington, Georgia, marks a transformative moment in the urban air mobility industry. By transitioning from R&D to commercialization, Archer is paving the way for the widespread adoption of eVTOL aircraft. The facility’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, supported by Stellantis, will enable Archer to scale production efficiently and meet the growing demand for sustainable aviation solutions.
Looking ahead, the success of ARC could inspire further innovation and investment in the UAM sector. As cities worldwide seek to address the challenges of urbanization and climate change, eVTOL technology offers a promising solution. Archer’s leadership in this space positions it as a key player in shaping the future of transportation, with Georgia at the forefront of this exciting new industry.
Question: What is the purpose of Archer’s ARC facility? Question: How many jobs will the ARC facility create? Question: What role does Stellantis play in the ARC facility? Sources: Business Facilities, CovNews, Inspenet
Archer Completes Aircraft Manufacturing Facility in Georgia
The Significance of ARC in Urban Air Mobility
Partnership with Stellantis: A Game-Changer
Economic and Environmental Impact
Conclusion
FAQ
Answer: The ARC facility is designed to produce Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft, which aims to provide a sustainable, low-noise, and safe alternative to ground transportation in urban areas.
Answer: The facility is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs, contributing to the local economy and reinforcing Georgia’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing.
Answer: Stellantis provides capital, advanced manufacturing technology, and expertise to help Archer scale production efficiently. This partnership is critical to the facility’s success.
Electric Aircraft
AIR Surpasses $1 Billion in Orders for Smart eVTOL Aircraft
Israel’s AIR reaches $1 billion in eVTOL orders, reporting $35 million revenue and FAA certification progress for AIR ONE personal aircraft.
This article is based on an official press release from AIR.
Smart aircraft manufacturer AIR has officially surpassed $1 billion in orders, signaling strong market interest in its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. According to a company press release, the Israel-based firm has accumulated a waitlist of more than 3,300 customers, with many having already placed deposits for future deliveries.
The milestone highlights the growing demand for next-generation air mobility solutions across personal, commercial, and defense sectors. AIR reported over $35 million in booked revenue to date, which the company attributes primarily to the sale and delivery of its Heavy-Lift unmanned aerial systems (UAS), alongside mobile ground control stations, parts, and servicing packages.
As the eVTOL industry moves closer to widespread commercialization, AIR is positioning itself to capitalize on emerging regulatory frameworks. The manufacturer noted that its flagship personal aircraft, the AIR ONE, is currently being considered under the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certificates (MOSAIC) framework as a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA).
The bulk of the company’s billion-dollar backlog stems from its consumer-focused model. In its official announcement, AIR detailed that 3,290 of the orders are for the AIR ONE personal aircraft. This two-seat, fully electric eVTOL is designed for private use and boasts a projected range of 100 miles.
According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the AIR ONE can reach speeds of up to 155 miles per hour and carry a payload of up to 550 pounds. The company stated that these personal aircraft orders will be fulfilled once FAA certification is secured and mass production begins. The aircraft also features redundant safety layers, an airframe parachute system, and “Fly-By-Intent” flight control technology.
Beyond personal mobility, AIR is also seeing traction in the commercial and logistics space. The press release indicated that the company has secured more than 25 orders for its AIR Cargo heavy-lift UAS, with two units already delivered to customers.
The cargo variant features a 70-cubic-foot cargo bay and matches the personal model’s 550-pound payload capacity. AIR confirmed it has an active production line for the heavy-lift aircraft and anticipates producing and delivering more than 20 additional units this year. The surge in orders follows a series of strategic and financial developments for the eVTOL developer. In July of last year, AIR closed a $23 million Series A funding round led by Entrée Capital, with participation from early backer Dr. Shmuel Harlap.
Furthermore, the company announced in September that its latest U.S.-based prototype had received an FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification. These regulatory and financial steps are crucial as the company transitions from prototyping to scalable manufacturing, supported by partnerships with the U.S. Air Force’s Agility Prime program, ST Engineering, Nidec Motors, and EDAG.
“Our mission is to make air mobility accessible and routine, while bridging personal, commercial, and defense transportation and operations,” said Rani Plaut, CEO and Co-Founder of AIR, in the press release.
The announcement of $1 billion in orders is a significant indicator of consumer and commercial appetite for eVTOL technology. However, as with many advanced air mobility startups, the transition from pre-orders to delivered, certified aircraft remains the ultimate hurdle. The fact that AIR is already generating real revenue, $35 million booked from its heavy-lift UAS and support systems, sets it apart from competitors that rely entirely on future passenger operations.
By targeting the Light Sport Aircraft category under the FAA’s MOSAIC framework, AIR may find a more streamlined path to market for its personal vehicles compared to the rigorous commercial passenger certification processes faced by air taxi operators. We will continue to monitor their production ramp-up, particularly whether they can meet their goal of delivering more than 20 cargo units this year.
The AIR ONE is a two-seater, fully electric eVTOL designed for personal use. According to the manufacturer, it features a 100-mile range, speeds up to 155 mph, and a 550-pound payload capacity.
The company reported over $35 million in book revenue, driven largely by its Heavy-Lift UAS deliveries, mobile ground control stations, parts, and servicing packages.
In September, AIR’s U.S.-based eVTOL prototype received an FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification. The AIR ONE is also being considered within the Light Sport Aircraft category under the FAA’s MOSAIC framework.
AIR Surpasses $1 Billion in Orders for Smart Aircraft and eVTOLs
Breaking Down the $1 Billion Order Book
Commercial and Heavy-Lift UAS Progress
Recent Milestones and Strategic Partnerships
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AIR ONE?
How much revenue has AIR generated?
Has the FAA certified AIR’s aircraft?
Sources
Photo Credit: AIR
Electric Aircraft
Beyond Aero Advances Hydrogen-Electric Business Jet Design Milestone
Beyond Aero reaches a critical design milestone for its hydrogen-electric business jet, expanding engineering teams and securing hydrogen infrastructure partnerships.
This article is based on an official press release from Beyond Aero.
French hydrogen aviation startup Beyond Aero has reached a critical design milestone for its upcoming hydrogen-electric business jet, signaling a maturation in both its supply chain and engineering efforts. In a recent company press release, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) detailed its progress in aircraft development and the parallel rollout of necessary ground infrastructure.
The transition to hydrogen propulsion represents a major shift for the aviation industry, requiring not just new aircraft architectures but entirely new fuel ecosystems. We are seeing Beyond Aero attempt to tackle both challenges simultaneously, ensuring that its clean-sheet aircraft will have the necessary refueling support upon its projected entry into service.
According to the official release, the company is aggressively expanding its technical capabilities and forging strategic partnerships to derisk the deployment of gaseous hydrogen for business aviation.
Developing a first-of-its-kind hydrogen-electric aircraft requires significant engineering resources. The press release notes that Beyond Aero now employs more than 80 aerospace engineers who are entirely dedicated to the program.
Industry estimates from Aerospace Global News indicate the aircraft is targeting a range of 800 nautical miles and a six-passenger capacity. Furthermore, the aircraft has an estimated entry into service in 2030, according to reporting by Flight Global. By building a dedicated workforce of over 80 specialists, the OEM is positioning itself to navigate the complex certification pathways required by European regulators.
A primary hurdle for hydrogen aviation is the lack of existing airport infrastructure. To address this, Beyond Aero is developing its aircraft alongside the required hydrogen ground systems. According to the company’s press release, the OEM has signed more than 10 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with airport operators.
Furthermore, the company has secured over 16 MoUs with hydrogen production and distribution partners. These agreements are designed to support the logistical planning and supply chain maturity necessary for reliable gaseous hydrogen delivery at commercial airports. To maximize operational flexibility, Beyond Aero has engineered its aircraft to be compatible with multiple refueling standards. As stated in the official announcement:
The aircraft is designed to operate using both 700-bar hydrogen infrastructure and 350-bar mobile refuelling systems, enabling operational deployment from existing airports.
This dual compatibility is a strategic decision by the OEM, allowing early adopters to utilize the aircraft before permanent, high-pressure hydrogen stations are widely constructed.
We view Beyond Aero’s dual-track approach, developing the aircraft while simultaneously securing the fuel supply chain, as a pragmatic response to the realities of the hydrogen aviation market. The reliance on 350-bar mobile refueling systems is particularly notable. It provides a vital stopgap that allows operators to fly the aircraft without waiting for airports to invest in expensive, permanent 700-bar infrastructure. Combined with a substantial engineering workforce and over $44 million in total funding raised to date (as reported by Aerospace Global News), the French startup is building a credible foundation for its 2030 service entry target. However, the sheer volume of MoUs will eventually need to translate into binding infrastructure investments to make widespread hydrogen flight a reality.
Beyond Aero is a French aviation startup developing a clean-sheet, hydrogen-electric light business jet designed for zero direct emissions in flight.
According to their press release, Beyond Aero has signed over 10 MoUs with airport operators and more than 16 with hydrogen producers. The aircraft is also designed to use 350-bar mobile refueling systems, allowing it to operate at airports without permanent hydrogen stations.
The company currently employs more than 80 aerospace engineers dedicated to the aircraft program.
Engineering and Design Maturation
Expanding the Technical Workforce
Hydrogen Infrastructure Integration
Ground Support and Strategic Partnerships
Dual-Pressure Refueling Capabilities
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Beyond Aero?
How is the company addressing the lack of hydrogen at airports?
How many engineers are working on the project?
Sources
Photo Credit: Beyond Aero
Electric Aircraft
Joby Aviation Piloted Electric Air Taxi Flight Launches 2026 Tour
Joby Aviation completed a piloted electric air taxi flight over San Francisco Bay, starting its 2026 Electric Skies Tour and advancing FAA certification.
This article is based on an official press release from Joby Aviation.
Joby Aviation has successfully completed a piloted demonstration flight of its electric air taxi across the San Francisco Bay Area, marking a highly visible milestone for the emerging electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) industry. According to a company press release, the flight showcased the aircraft’s operational readiness against the backdrop of one of the world’s most recognizable skylines.
The demonstration serves as the official launch of the company’s 2026 Electric Skies Tour, a nationwide initiative designed to coincide with the United States’ 250th anniversary. By flying in a region notorious for heavy traffic congestion, Joby aims to highlight the practical benefits of its emissions-free aviation technology.
Departing from Oakland International Airport, the Joby aircraft, tail number N545JX, was piloted by Andrea Pingitore. The company stated that the air taxi flew quietly across the San Francisco Bay, heading toward the Golden Gate Bridge before turning above the Marin Headlands.
The flight is the first of many planned for the 2026 Electric Skies Tour. Joby expects to present its aircraft in multiple cities across the country, demonstrating the potential for air taxis to connect communities faster and with less noise than traditional Helicopters.
“The Bay Area is home to the world’s most innovative companies, including Joby, but it’s also an area with significant traffic and unique geographical barriers. Our technology provides an opportunity to build on the immense potential of this region while protecting it for the next generation.”
This statement was provided by JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby, in the official release.
Beyond the ceremonial flight, Joby Aviation shared several operational updates. The company reported that its fleet has completed thousands of test flights, accumulating more than 50,000 miles. Furthermore, Joby recently flew its first FAA-conforming aircraft for Type Inspection Authorization, a critical step that clears the way for Federal Aviation Administration pilots to conduct formal testing later this year.
Joby has also been selected to participate in the White House-backed eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). According to the press release, this Partnerships will allow the company to commence early operations across 10 states, including Arizona, Florida, New York, and Texas. To support its commercial rollout, Joby is scaling its Manufacturing footprint. The company recently acquired a 700,000-square-foot facility in Dayton, Ohio. Alongside existing sites in California, the Dayton plant is designed to help increase production to four aircraft per month by 2027, with an eventual target of delivering up to 500 aircraft annually.
We view the San Francisco Bay flight as a strategic marketing move for Joby Aviation, but it is underpinned by tangible regulatory and manufacturing progress. The accumulation of 50,000 test miles and the initiation of FAA Type Inspection Authorization testing indicate that the company is moving from the conceptual phase into late-stage certification. The expansion into a 700,000-square-foot facility in Ohio also demonstrates a necessary shift toward scaled manufacturing, which remains one of the most significant hurdles for the broader eVTOL sector.
According to the company, it is a national showcase by Joby Aviation, timed to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, featuring demonstration flights of its electric air taxi in cities across the country.
Joby operates production and powertrain facilities in Marina and San Carlos, California, and recently acquired a 700,000-square-foot facility in Dayton, Ohio, to scale production to an expected 500 aircraft per year over time.
The Golden Gate Flight and 2026 Tour
Production and Regulatory Milestones
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026 Electric Skies Tour?
Where is Joby manufacturing its aircraft?
Sources
Photo Credit: Joby Aviation
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