Technology & Innovation
Archer Aviation Joins White House eVTOL Pilot Program for Urban Air Mobility
Archer Aviation partners in the White House eVTOL Pilot Program to advance urban air mobility with its Midnight aircraft in U.S. cities.
The electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector has rapidly shifted from speculative innovation to a key driver in the future of urban transportation. In September 2025, Archer Aviation announced its participation in the White House eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), marking a historic commitment from the U.S. government to accelerate the adoption of advanced air mobility. This initiative, stemming from a presidential executive order, is set to reshape regulatory frameworks and operational standards for urban air taxis in the United States.
The eIPP’s launch signals a new era where American cities, airlines, and pioneering companies like Archer can collaborate to test and refine eVTOL technology in real-world environments. As the industry moves beyond prototypes to pre-commercial trials, the outcomes of these pilot programs will influence not only the future of urban mobility in the U.S., but also global leadership in advanced aviation technologies.
Archer’s participation, alongside major industry players and with the backing of partners such as United Airlines, underscores the strategic importance of this initiative. The company’s flagship Midnight aircraft will serve as a testbed for operational, regulatory, and commercial integration, providing valuable data and setting benchmarks for safety, efficiency, and public acceptance.
The eVTOL industry has evolved substantially since the early 2010s, progressing from conceptual sketches to fully functional aircraft. Archer Aviation, founded by Adam Goldstein, has emerged as a prominent force in this landscape. Its Midnight aircraft is a product of years of research and development, featuring a unique tilt-rotor design and advanced electric propulsion systems. Capable of carrying a pilot and four passengers, the Midnight is engineered for short urban hops, representing a realistic solution to metropolitan congestion.
Market interest in eVTOL has surged in recent years, with valuations for the global sector reaching $4.2 billion in early 2025, up from $2.8 billion in 2023. This growth is driven by increasing investor confidence, technological breakthroughs, and a recognition of urban air mobility’s potential to revolutionize city transport. Archer and competitors like Joby Aviation now control significant market shares, with Joby at 22% and Archer close behind at 18%.
Archer’s technological advancements are emblematic of the sector’s progress. The Midnight aircraft integrates 12 electric motors, six independent battery packs, and a noise profile of just 45 dBA during cruise, substantially quieter than conventional helicopters. These features address longstanding barriers to urban air operations, including noise pollution and operational safety, and position Archer as a strong candidate for the eIPP’s ambitious objectives.
“The next great technological revolution in aviation is here, and the United States will lead the way in cementing America’s status as a global leader in transportation innovation.”, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy
The eIPP was established following a June executive order aimed at “Unleashing American Drone Dominance.” The Department of Transportation and the FAA were tasked with creating supervised environments for eVTOL trials. This regulatory pivot is designed to fast-track the transition from experimental to commercial operations, allowing companies with mature designs to operate before full type certification is achieved.
Modeled after the successful UAS Integration Pilot Program of 2017, the eIPP will launch at least five pilot projects across the U.S. over a three-year period. Projects are selected based on criteria such as technological readiness, public-private partnership models, and geographic diversity. Only U.S.-based entities and technologies are eligible, reinforcing the program’s focus on domestic innovation and economic development. For Archer, the eIPP is both a proving ground and a pathway to regulatory approval. The company’s collaboration with United Airlines and other stakeholders provides operational expertise and market validation, while the program’s structure allows for iterative improvement based on real-world data and community feedback.
Archer’s approach to the eIPP is rooted in strategic partnerships, most notably with United Airlines. This relationship, which began with a significant investment in 2021, extends beyond capital to encompass operational support, certification guidance, and integration with existing airline infrastructure. United’s involvement signals confidence in Archer’s technology and the broader viability of urban air mobility.
By aligning with established airlines, Archer gains access to critical expertise in areas such as airspace management, passenger logistics, and maintenance. This collaborative model not only accelerates deployment but also enhances public trust, an essential factor for widespread adoption of new aviation technologies. As Archer COO Tom Muniz has noted, these partnerships provide early revenue streams and invaluable operational insights.
The eIPP’s requirements dovetail with Archer’s strengths: the company is prepared to deploy certified pilots, maintain operational aircraft, and coordinate with state and local governments. This readiness positions Archer to meet the program’s compressed timelines and stringent safety standards.
The Midnight aircraft is central to Archer’s eIPP strategy. Its vectored-thrust lift+cruise design, with six tiltrotors and a fixed wing, enables efficient vertical takeoff and rapid forward flight. With a cruising speed of around 150 mph and a typical range of 20–50 miles, Midnight is tailored for short urban routes, such as airport transfers and city-center commutes.
The aircraft’s distributed propulsion system, 12 electric motors and six independent battery packs, provides redundancy and safety, minimizing the risk of single-point failures. Rapid charging capabilities allow for up to 40 flights per day, while a low noise signature addresses community concerns about urban air operations. Midnight’s composite structure ensures durability without compromising payload capacity.
Safety is a cornerstone of Archer’s design philosophy. The aircraft’s multiple redundant systems, fail-safe configurations, and easy maintenance protocols are intended to meet or exceed existing aviation safety standards. These features are critical for gaining regulatory approval and public acceptance during the eIPP trials.
“Early operations will demonstrate that eVTOL flights can be conducted safely and quietly.”, Adam Goldstein, CEO of Archer Aviation
The success of eVTOL operations hinges on supporting infrastructure, particularly the development of vertiports for takeoff, landing, and charging. The global vertiport market is projected to grow from $0.4 billion in 2023 to $10.7 billion by 2030, reflecting the scale of investment required for widespread adoption. Archer’s strategy involves working with municipalities and private partners to secure access to these facilities in key urban markets. Archer’s competitive positioning is strengthened by its focus on operational efficiency and integration with existing transportation networks. The company’s partnerships, technical capabilities, and readiness for real-world trials set it apart from both traditional aerospace giants and emerging startups. With North-America currently leading the global eVTOL market, holding 42% of total value, Archer is well placed to capitalize on domestic and international opportunities.
The broader market environment is dynamic, with major players like Joby Aviation, Airbus, and Bell Textron competing for leadership. Archer’s emphasis on American-made technology and public-private collaboration aligns with the eIPP’s priorities and may provide an edge in the selection and execution of pilot projects.
The eIPP represents a significant departure from traditional aviation certification, allowing for supervised commercial operations before full type approval. This regulatory flexibility is designed to accelerate innovation while maintaining rigorous safety standards. The FAA’s involvement ensures that lessons from the pilot programs will inform nationwide rules for advanced air mobility.
Archer and its peers must navigate a complex certification landscape, balancing the need for rapid deployment with the imperative of safety and public trust. The eIPP’s three-year timeline, structured milestones, and data-driven approach provide a pragmatic framework for iterative improvement and risk management.
Internationally, regulatory approaches vary, with Europe and Asia investing heavily in eVTOL infrastructure and supportive policies. The U.S. eIPP is intended to maintain American leadership in this fast-moving sector, setting standards that could influence global best practices.
The economic potential of eVTOL adoption is substantial. Beyond the immediate effects on Archer’s business prospects, the sector promises to generate high-skilled manufacturing jobs, stimulate investment in infrastructure, and foster ancillary industries such as charging networks, maintenance, and air traffic management.
Estimates suggest that the global eVTOL market could reach values as high as $87.6 billion by 2026, with some forecasts projecting a $1 trillion urban air mobility market by 2040. Archer’s partnership with United Airlines, which includes a commitment to purchase up to 200 aircraft, exemplifies the scale of commercial opportunity at stake.
The economic benefits are likely to be distributed across urban and rural communities, with applications ranging from passenger transport to medical response and cargo delivery. The eIPP’s emphasis on geographic diversity and public-private collaboration is designed to maximize these benefits nationwide. Safety is paramount for the success of eVTOL operations. Archer’s Midnight aircraft is engineered with multiple redundancies and fail-safe systems, but public acceptance will depend on transparent demonstration of safety performance during eIPP trials. Community engagement and education are critical to overcoming skepticism and ensuring that urban air mobility is viewed as a safe and beneficial addition to city life.
Technological evolution in batteries, autonomous systems, and manufacturing will continue to shape the sector. While current eIPP operations will use piloted aircraft, advances in autonomy could enable future operations with reduced crew requirements and greater efficiency. Archer and its partners must remain agile, adapting to new technologies while maintaining focus on regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
The eIPP provides a platform for iterative learning, allowing companies and regulators to refine standards, address unforeseen challenges, and build the foundation for scaled commercial deployment. The program’s outcomes will have lasting influence on the direction of urban transportation in the U.S. and beyond.
Archer Aviation’s involvement in the White House eVTOL Integration Pilot Program is a watershed moment for both the company and the broader field of urban air mobility. The eIPP offers a unique opportunity to validate eVTOL technology in real-world settings, gather critical operational data, and shape the regulatory frameworks that will govern the industry’s future. Archer’s strategic partnerships, technical readiness, and focus on safety position it as a frontrunner in this transformative initiative.
Looking ahead, the lessons learned from the eIPP will inform not only Archer’s commercial trajectory but also the evolution of urban transportation in America. If successful, the program could accelerate the adoption of eVTOL services, catalyze economic growth, and establish the U.S. as a global leader in advanced aviation. The next three years will be pivotal in determining the pace and direction of this new era in mobility.
What is the White House eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP)? How is Archer Aviation involved in the eIPP? What are the expected benefits of the eVTOL pilot program? How does Archer’s Midnight aircraft differ from traditional helicopters? What is the timeline for the eIPP and commercial eVTOL operations?
Introduction: The Significance of Archer Aviation’s Role in the White House eVTOL Pilot Program
Historical Context and Industry Evolution
The Rise of eVTOL and Archer’s Pioneering Role
The Genesis and Structure of the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program
Archer’s Strategic Partnerships and Technical Capabilities
Operational Readiness and Airline Collaboration
Midnight Aircraft: Design, Performance, and Safety
Infrastructure and Market Positioning
Regulatory, Economic, and Societal Implications
Regulatory Innovation and Certification Pathways
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Safety, Public Acceptance, and Future Technology
Conclusion and Future Outlook
FAQ
The eIPP is a federal initiative launched in 2025 to accelerate the deployment of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft in U.S. cities, allowing for supervised commercial trials before full type certification.
Archer is participating as a key industry partner, testing its Midnight aircraft in collaboration with major airlines and municipalities to demonstrate operational safety, efficiency, and public acceptance.
The program aims to validate eVTOL technology, inform regulatory standards, create high-skilled jobs, and lay the groundwork for scalable urban air mobility solutions in the U.S.
Midnight is quieter, uses distributed electric propulsion for safety, and is optimized for short urban routes. Its design reduces noise pollution and enables rapid turnaround between flights.
The eIPP is structured as a three-year program, with pilot projects expected to begin operations within months of selection. Insights from these trials will inform the broader rollout of commercial eVTOL services.
Sources
Photo Credit: Archer Aviation
Technology & Innovation
Argonne and Spirit AeroSystems Launch AI Tool for Aerospace Inspections
Argonne National Laboratory and Spirit AeroSystems introduce an AI tool that speeds composite material inspections, reducing time and energy use in aerospace manufacturing.
This article is based on an official press release from Argonne National Laboratory.
A new collaboration between government research facilities and private industry aims to resolve one of the most persistent bottlenecks in modern Commercial-Aircraft manufacturing: the inspection of composite materials. On January 7, 2026, Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) announced the development of an artificial intelligence tool designed to accelerate the analysis of ultrasonic scans, a move they report will significantly reduce production time and energy consumption.
The project, led by ANL in partnership with Spirit AeroSystems, Northern Illinois University, and Texas Research Institute Austin, utilizes advanced machine learning to assist human inspectors. According to the laboratory’s announcement, the tool reduces human inspection time by 7% and cuts facility-level energy usage by approximately 3% per aircraft.
Modern aerospace engineering relies heavily on composite materials due to their superior strength-to-weight ratios. However, verifying the structural integrity of these materials is a data-intensive process. Manufacturers typically use ultrasonic non-destructive testing (NDT) to scan components, generating massive datasets that human experts must manually review to identify defects.
Argonne National Laboratory describes this manual review process as time-consuming and mentally fatiguing. To address this, the research team utilized the Argonne Leadership Computing Facility (ALCF), a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science user facility, to develop a solution based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs).
According to the technical details released by the laboratory, the AI model does not replace human inspectors. Instead, it functions as an intelligent assistant that rapidly processes scan data to highlight “regions of interest.”
“It rapidly processes scan data and highlights specific areas that contain potential defects or anomalies. This allows human experts to focus their attention solely on ‘regions of interest’ rather than reviewing empty or flawless data.”
— Argonne National Laboratory Announcement
The integration of this technology offers measurable gains in both efficiency and Sustainability. Spirit AeroSystems, a major aerostructures manufacturer, provided the proprietary dataset of ultrasonic scans used to train the model. The resulting tool has demonstrated the ability to shorten the overall production flow time. By automating the initial screening of ultrasonic data, the tool reduces the time human inspectors spend on each component by 7%. In high-volume manufacturing environments, this reduction allows for increased throughput and helps alleviate production backlogs.
Perhaps most notably, the efficiency gains translate directly into energy savings. The announcement states that the tool lowers energy use by roughly 3% per aircraft. This reduction is achieved at the facility level; shorter inspection times mean that heavy machinery, HVAC systems, and lighting operate for fewer hours per unit produced.
The deployment of this AI tool highlights a critical shift in the aerospace sector’s approach to “Industry 4.0.” While much of the past decade’s innovation focused on physical Automation, such as robotic drilling or fastening, the current frontier is digital automation.
We observe that the bottleneck in composite manufacturing has shifted from layup (placing the material) to verification (proving the material is safe). As aircraft designs become increasingly complex, the volume of NDT data is outpacing human capacity to review it. The “human-in-the-loop” approach taken by Argonne and Spirit AeroSystems is significant because it mitigates the regulatory hurdles associated with fully autonomous inspection. By keeping the human inspector as the final authority, manufacturers can likely integrate these tools faster than if they sought to replace the human entirely.
Furthermore, the “open-framework” nature of the underlying techniques, mentioned in the release as being available for academic research, suggests that this methodology could soon expand beyond aerospace into wind energy and automotive sectors, where composite usage is also rising.
The success of this initiative relied on a multi-sector collaboration. While Argonne provided the supercomputing power and machine learning expertise, Spirit AeroSystems supplied the domain knowledge and real-world data necessary to train the AI effectively. Northern Illinois University and Texas Research Institute Austin contributed to validating the technology’s robustness and reliability.
Rajkumar Kettimuthu, a Senior Scientist and Group Leader at Argonne, emphasized the collaborative nature of the work in the official release, noting the combination of industrial constraints and high-performance computing.
Argonne National Laboratory and Spirit AeroSystems Unveil AI Tool for Aerospace Inspections
Addressing the Composite Challenge
Operational and Environmental Benefits
Efficiency Gains
Energy Reduction
AirPro News Analysis
Partnership Details
Sources
Photo Credit: Argonne National Lab
Technology & Innovation
Horizon Aircraft Reports $24M Cash and 2026 Prototype Timeline
Horizon Aircraft secures $24M cash and funding to complete the Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric eVTOL prototype by 2026 with flight tests in 2027.
This article is based on an official press release from Horizon Aircraft and financial data released January 14, 2026.
Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) has released its financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2026, ending November 30, 2025. The company reported a strengthened balance sheet with over $24 million in cash on hand, a liquidity position management states is sufficient to fund operations through the completion of its full-scale Cavorite X7 prototype in 2026.
According to the company’s official statement, the quarter was marked by significant operational growth and the securing of non-dilutive funding, positioning the aerospace manufacturer to advance its hybrid-electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) technology.
In its Q2 fiscal 2026 report, Horizon Aircraft confirmed it has secured the necessary capital to execute its near-term engineering goals. The company highlighted a cash balance of $24 million as of November 30, 2025. This financial runway is supported by a combination of equity financing and government grants.
Recent financing activities include a capital raise of approximately C$10.8 million during the second quarter through the sale of 2.6 million shares. Additionally, analyst coverage indicates the closing of a financing tranche in December 2024 involving $1.5 million (approximately C$2.1 million) in common shares.
Beyond private capital, Horizon has successfully tapped into public funding. The company was awarded a C$10.5 million non-dilutive grant from the Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT). This funding is specifically earmarked to support the development of all-weather flight capabilities for the Cavorite X7.
Brian Merker, CFO of Horizon Aircraft, commented on the company’s financial stability in the press release:
“With significantly improved working capital and incoming non-dilutive funding… we are well positioned to continue investing in our people, advancing our technology, and executing toward completion of our full-scale aircraft.”
Horizon Aircraft is focused on the development of the Cavorite X7, a seven-seat hybrid-electric eVTOL designed for regional air mobility, medical evacuation, and cargo transport. The aircraft distinguishes itself with a patented “fan-in-wing” system, which allows it to fly 98% of its mission configuration as a traditional fixed-wing plane. This design covers the vertical lift fans during forward flight to significantly reduce drag. The company has outlined a clear roadmap for the next 18 months. According to the Q2 update:
To support this timeline, Horizon has doubled its engineering headcount year-over-year and plans to double the team size again by the end of 2026.
Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon Aircraft, emphasized the momentum behind the project:
“The progress achieved during the second quarter of fiscal 2026 provides strong momentum toward completing our full-scale aircraft and commencing initial testing within the next 12 to 18 months.”
The Hybrid Advantage in a Crowded Market
While many competitors in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector are pursuing pure electric architectures tailored for short-range urban air taxi services, Horizon Aircraft’s hybrid-electric approach targets a different segment. By utilizing a hybrid system that recharges batteries in-flight, the Cavorite X7 offers a projected range of 800 kilometers (500 miles) and speeds of up to 450 km/h (280 mph).
This technical choice allows Horizon to bypass the immediate need for extensive ground charging infrastructure, a major bottleneck for pure electric eVTOLs. Furthermore, the ability to operate in “austere environments”, areas without prepared runways, makes the aircraft particularly viable for military and medevac applications, sectors where reliability and range often outweigh the benefits of zero-emission propulsion.
Horizon Aircraft is actively deepening relationships with supply chain partners to ensure the timely delivery of components for the full-scale prototype. The company is also exploring military applications for the Cavorite X7, leveraging its design suitability for rugged environments.
The company’s stock (NASDAQ: HOVR) has reflected the volatility typical of the emerging eVTOL sector, though the confirmation of a funded runway through 2026 provides a degree of certainty regarding the company’s ability to reach its next major technical milestone.
What is the Cavorite X7? When will the Cavorite X7 fly? How much cash does Horizon Aircraft have? What makes Horizon different from other eVTOL companies?
Horizon Aircraft Reports $24 Million Cash Position, Confirms 2026 Prototype Timeline
Financial Highlights and Liquidity
Operational Progress: The Cavorite X7
Prototype Timeline
AirPro News Analysis
Strategic Outlook
Frequently Asked Questions
The Cavorite X7 is a hybrid-electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft being developed by Horizon Aircraft. It carries one pilot and six passengers and features a patented fan-in-wing design.
According to the company’s latest schedule, the full-scale prototype will be assembled in 2026, with initial flight testing slated to begin in early 2027.
As of November 30, 2025, the company reported $24 million in cash on hand.
Horizon focuses on regional transport rather than urban air taxis. Its hybrid-electric powertrain allows for longer ranges and removes the dependency on ground charging stations.
Sources
Photo Credit: Horizon Aircraft
Technology & Innovation
Airbus Consortium Demonstrates Flight-Ready Composite Recycling
Airbus and partners recycle thermoplastic composites from retired A380 parts into structural components for A320neo, advancing circular aviation.
In a significant step toward a circular aviation economy, a consortium led by Airbus has successfully demonstrated that high-value thermoplastic composite parts can be recycled from retired aircraft and repurposed into structural components for new jets. The project, titled “Recycled and Ready,” involved taking an end-of-life part from a retired A380 and manufacturing it into a flight-ready component for an A320neo.
According to the official announcement released on January 15, 2026, the initiative proves that aerospace composites, historically difficult to recycle without degrading their quality, can be retained within the aviation supply chain rather than being “downcycled” into lower-value products like filler or ground transport components.
The breakthrough was achieved through a partnership between Airbus, materials supplier Toray Advanced Composites, aerostructures manufacturer Daher, and dismantling specialist Tarmac Aerosave. The team’s efforts were recognized with a JEC Innovation Award in the “Circularity and Recycling” category.
The core achievement of the project was the successful conversion of a used engine pylon fairing cover (cowl) from a dismantled A380 into a structural panel for an A320neo pylon. This transition from a “superjumbo” part to a single-aisle component validates the industrial feasibility of reusing thermoplastic materials.
The project relied on the specific properties of the material used: Toray Cetex® TC1100, a carbon fiber reinforced Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) thermoplastic. Unlike traditional thermoset composites, which undergo a chemical change during curing that cannot be reversed, thermoplastics can be melted, reshaped, and reformed multiple times.
The project required precise coordination across the supply-chain, with each partner fulfilling a specific role:
This development addresses one of the aviation industry’s most persistent sustainability challenges: the disposal of carbon fiber composites. While metals like aluminum and titanium have recovery rates near 90%, composites have often ended up in landfills because separating the fibers from the resin is technically difficult and expensive.
Isabell Gradert, Airbus VP of Central Research and Technology, emphasized the importance of cross-industry collaboration in achieving this milestone:
“This recognition from the JEC shows how complex challenges, including high-value recycling, are best tackled through partnership. We exist in a complex aerospace supply chain in a hyper-connected world. If a company comes up with a solution on its own, that’s a great story. If an entire industry does it together, that’s transformative.”
, Isabell Gradert, Airbus VP Central Research and Technology
Scott Unger, CEO of Toray Advanced Composites, noted that the project opens the door for high-performance materials to be “meaningfully reused and reintegrated” into structural applications, rather than being discarded.
The Shift to Thermoplastics: This project underscores the strategic advantage of thermoplastic composites over traditional thermosets. While thermosets (like those used heavily on the Boeing 787 and early A350s) offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios, they are chemically “baked” and difficult to recycle. The success of the “Recycled and Ready” program suggests that future aircraft designs may increasingly favor thermoplastics to ensure end-of-life recyclability.
Supply Chain Resilience: Beyond sustainability, this approach offers a strategic benefit. By treating retired aircraft as “material mines,” manufacturers can reduce their dependence on virgin raw materials. With over 10,000 thermoplastic parts on a single A380, the potential inventory for recycled feedstock is substantial. This could help insulate manufacturers from price volatility and supply chain disruptions in the global carbon fiber market.
From Superjumbo to Single-Aisle: Airbus Consortium Proves “Closed-Loop” Composite Recycling is Flight-Ready
Closing the Loop: The Process
Consortium Roles
Industry Significance and Executive Commentary
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
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