Electric Aircraft
GKN Aerospace and Archer Aviation Boost UK eVTOL Manufacturing
Expanded partnership focuses on Midnight eVTOL component production in the UK, advancing sustainable urban air mobility and high-skilled job creation.
The aerospace and urban mobility sectors are undergoing a transformative shift, as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft edge closer to commercial viability. A key milestone in this journey was marked by the June 2025 announcement of an expanded collaboration between GKN Aerospace and Archer Aviation. This strategic partnership focuses on the manufacture of critical airframe components for Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft at GKN’s UK facilities. The collaboration signifies more than a supply chain agreement, it reflects a broader industrial movement toward sustainable, scalable, and efficient urban air transportation.
With the global Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market projected to grow significantly in the coming years, the GKN-Archer alliance positions the UK as a pivotal player in the race for zero-emission aviation. This partnership leverages GKN’s decades of aerospace manufacturing expertise and Archer’s innovative eVTOL platform to accelerate the industrialization of next-generation air travel. As cities worldwide seek to reduce congestion and carbon emissions, such collaborations are becoming essential in shaping the future of mobility.
Under the newly expanded agreement, GKN Aerospace will manufacture the wing structures for Archer’s Midnight aircraft using advanced composites and automation technologies. This builds upon GKN’s existing role in supplying the aircraft’s low-voltage Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems (EWIS), previously produced at GKN’s Netherlands facility. The transition of manufacturing to the UK signals a strategic move to consolidate key production elements and support localized industrial growth.
The wing structures are critical not only for flight dynamics but also for achieving energy efficiency. GKN’s expertise in lightweight composite materials, used extensively in modern aircraft, plays a vital role in reducing the aircraft’s weight and, by extension, its emissions. The company’s high-rate manufacturing capabilities, including automated assembly lines, are expected to reduce assembly time, enabling a production ramp-up to meet Archer’s delivery targets.
This expansion supports Archer’s goal of scaling Midnight production to meet anticipated demand. The manufacturing process will take place at GKN’s UK facilities, which are equipped to handle the high precision and safety standards required for aviation-grade components. The collaboration also aligns with the UK government’s Aerospace Sector Deal, which allocated significant funding to future flight technologies, including eVTOL development.
“This collaboration accelerates the eVTOL industry’s shift from R&D to industrialization. Our composites and EWIS expertise will ensure Midnight meets the safety and sustainability demands of urban air mobility.” , John Pritchard, President, Civil Airframes, GKN Aerospace
The financial and operational scale of this partnership is substantial. GKN Aerospace’s UK operations currently employ a significant workforce, and the Midnight project is expected to create numerous high-skilled jobs by 2026. These roles will span engineering, composite manufacturing, and quality assurance, supporting the UK’s broader employment and innovation goals in aerospace.
From a market perspective, the eVTOL segment is forecasted to experience substantial growth by 2030, with urban air taxi services comprising a significant portion of that demand. Archer’s Midnight aircraft, with its range and cruising speed, is designed to meet this demand in congested urban corridors. The aircraft’s design includes multiple propellers and independent battery packs, emphasizing redundancy and safety.
Importantly, the partnership benefits from the UK’s long-term commitment to aerospace innovation. The Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme has invested billions in R&D since its inception, focusing on sustainable aviation technologies such as electrification and digital manufacturing. GKN’s involvement in this ecosystem ensures that the Midnight project is not just a commercial venture, but part of a national strategy for zero-emission aviation leadership. Archer Aviation achieved a significant milestone with the successful transition flight of the Midnight aircraft in June 2024. This test validated the aircraft’s tilt-propeller design and battery performance, marking a key step toward FAA certification, which is expected by late 2025. The aircraft has already completed over 400 test flights, demonstrating its readiness for scaled production.
The production ramp-up is supported by the opening of Archer’s 400,000 square foot facility in Georgia, where automotive partner Stellantis brings its expertise in high-volume manufacturing. GKN’s role in producing critical airframe components in the UK complements this U.S.-based final assembly, creating a transatlantic supply chain that blends aerospace precision with automotive scalability.
This dual-continent strategy is designed to optimize both cost and efficiency, ensuring that Archer can meet its ambitious delivery targets. It also reflects a growing trend in the AAM sector: the integration of traditional aerospace suppliers with new mobility startups to accelerate commercialization.
GKN’s Bristol facility has developed a proprietary resin transfer molding process specifically for Midnight’s wings. This innovation reduces material waste compared to traditional composite layup methods, contributing to both cost savings and environmental sustainability. The process also enhances structural integrity, which is critical for meeting aviation safety standards.
These advancements build on GKN’s prior work with other AAM initiatives, where it delivered full composite wing assemblies for prototype eVTOLs. The company’s track record in composite technologies spans decades and includes contributions to major aircraft platforms like the Airbus A350 and the F-35 Lightning II.
By applying these technologies to the eVTOL sector, GKN is helping to bridge the gap between experimental aviation and mass-market deployment. The ability to produce high-strength, lightweight components at scale is essential for making eVTOLs commercially viable and environmentally sustainable.
The expanded collaboration between GKN Aerospace and Archer Aviation represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of urban air mobility. By combining GKN’s manufacturing expertise with Archer’s innovative aircraft design, the partnership is setting the stage for large-scale eVTOL production in the UK. This initiative not only supports Archer’s commercial goals but also aligns with the UK’s broader ambitions to lead in sustainable aviation technologies.
As the eVTOL sector matures, success will depend on overcoming regulatory, infrastructural, and production challenges. However, the groundwork laid by this partnership demonstrates a viable path forward. With continued investment, innovation, and collaboration, the vision of zero-emission urban air travel could become a reality within the next decade. What is the goal of the GKN and Archer collaboration? Where will the Midnight aircraft be manufactured? What makes the Midnight eVTOL unique? How does this partnership support UK industry? When is the Midnight expected to be certified? Sources: GKN Aerospace, Archer Aviation, Aerospace Technology Institute, Melrose Industries
Forging the Future of Urban Air Mobility: GKN Aerospace and Archer Aviation Expand Partnership in the UK
Strategic Collaboration: Key Facts and Industrial Implications
Scope of the Expanded Partnership
Financial and Operational Metrics
Technological Innovations and Industry Developments
Midnight’s Transition to Production
Advancements in Composite Manufacturing
Conclusion
FAQ
The goal is to manufacture critical airframe components for Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft, supporting its commercial rollout and advancing sustainable urban air mobility.
Key components will be produced at GKN Aerospace’s UK facilities, while final assembly will occur at Archer’s facility in Georgia, USA.
Midnight features a range, multiple propellers, independent battery packs, and a cruising speed, emphasizing safety and urban efficiency.
The project is expected to create numerous high-skilled jobs and aligns with the UK government’s Aerospace Sector Deal and sustainability goals.
FAA certification for the Midnight aircraft is anticipated by late 2025, following over 400 successful test flights.
Photo Credit:
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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