Archer Aviation Plans Electric Air Taxi Launch In India After FAA Certification

Archer Aviation, a leading electric air taxi maker, plans to launch operations in India through a joint venture as early as next year. According to CEO Adam Goldstein, this follows the completion of its certification process with the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Goldstein announced the news at the World Economic Forum, stating that once Archer completes FAA certification, it will be ready to expand globally, with India as a key target market. Archer has worked closely with US regulators, who have established a certification framework for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Goldstein believes global regulators, including those in India, will follow the FAA’s guidelines.

Although Archer’s aircraft will first be launched in the U.S., it will eventually be tested in India. Goldstein emphasized that the technology behind eVTOLs has matured, and extensive testing data proves their safety.

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The company’s eVTOL aircraft is designed with built-in redundancy, featuring 12 electric engines and six battery packs. This setup ensures that the aircraft can operate safely even if one engine or battery pack fails. Goldstein stressed that safety is paramount to scaling the product for commercial aviation.

Archer plans to use existing infrastructure such as helipads, airports, and municipal airports for its operations. While additional charging infrastructure will be required, it will be similar to that used by electric ground vehicles, according to Goldstein.

Initially, the cost of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft in India may be higher, but it is expected to decrease over time as production scales. Unlike helicopters, which are too loud for urban areas, eVTOLs are much quieter, allowing for greater scalability and lower costs in the long run.

Archer Aviation, based in San Jose, California, has already raised $2 billion in funding. Each aircraft will carry four passengers plus a pilot, making it a sustainable, cost-effective, and safe mode of transportation for the future.