Archer Aviation Secures $126M Los Angeles Hub for eVTOL Air-Taxi Network
Archer Aviation has made a significant investment in the Los Angeles air-taxi market, acquiring Hawthorne Municipal Airport for $126 million. The airport, located just minutes from LAX and major landmarks, will serve as the primary hub for Archer's commercial eVTOL operations and a testbed for AI-based aviation technologies.
The acquisition comes as Archer expands its flight-test program for the Midnight eVTOL aircraft. Recently, the aircraft completed a 55-mile piloted flight, reaching an altitude of 10,000 feet and speeds over 126 mph. This milestone demonstrates Archer's progress in developing safe and efficient electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.
Archer plans to use the airport for its planned Los Angeles air-taxi network and the 2028 Olympic Games in LA. The strategic location of the airport will allow for quick and convenient access to key locations in the city. Additionally, Archer has acquired the Lilium patent portfolio, adding about 300 advanced-air-mobility patents to its existing portfolio.
Archer has also begun test and demonstration flights in Abu Dhabi and is pursuing in-country certification of Midnight for commercial operations. The company has raised $650 million in new equity capital, bringing its total liquidity to over $2 billion. Despite reporting losses of about $130 million in the third quarter of 2025 and expecting losses between $110 million and $140 million for the final quarter, Archer remains committed to its mission of making electric air travel accessible and sustainable.
