News Summary
Archer Aviation is expanding its operations in Orange County through the acquisition of a facility and patents from Overair. This move aims to bolster its development of electric-powered vertical takeoff-and-landing (eVTOL) aircraft, including plans for the ‘Midnight’ model, while positioning itself as an air taxi provider for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Additionally, Archer is exploring hybrid military technologies in response to growing demand for advanced autonomous systems.
Orange County, California – Archer Aviation Expands Operations with New Acquisitions
Archer Aviation is set to strengthen its operations in Orange County by acquiring a former facility from Mission Critical Composites and a technical team, along with patents from the now-defunct flying taxi company Overair. This expansion is geared towards enhancing its development of electric-powered vertical takeoff-and-landing (eVTOL) aircraft, also known as flying taxis.
The acquisition includes a 60,000-square-foot facility in Huntington Beach, where Archer plans to produce composite materials crucial for its aircraft. Currently, Archer employs around 20 people at this site, with intentions to hire additional staff as operations grow. The precise financial details of these transactions have not been disclosed.
In addition to the facility, Archer’s acquisition of Overair’s patents focuses primarily on defense programs, although specific patent details have not been made public. The technical team from Overair was involved in eVTOL designs and technologies, vital for Archer’s future projects.
Developing the “Midnight” Aircraft
Archer is progressing toward launching a piloted eVTOL aircraft named “Midnight.” This innovative design is intended to carry up to four passengers, boasting lower noise levels and fewer emissions compared to conventional helicopters. The company is actively working towards receiving Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification, similar to that of commercial aircraft, particularly emphasizing safety with redundant systems.
Plans for the LA28 Olympic Games
Archer has its sights set on becoming the official air taxi provider for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The company plans to establish a network of vertiports that will be strategically positioned near key venues, facilitating the smooth transport of an anticipated 15 million visitors during the games. Important locations for these vertiports include the Stadium in Inglewood, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and major transportation hubs such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Santa Monica.
Defense Expansion and Partnerships
Archer’s moves come against a backdrop of increased demand for military systems, following a recent Pentagon request for autonomous technologies totaling $13.4 billion. As part of its defense strategy, Archer is collaborating with Anduril Industries, founded by Palmer Luckey, to develop hybrid, autonomous VTOL military aircraft. Archer’s CEO noted that in-house production capabilities will enhance rapid prototyping and iterations for defense program requirements.
The aerospace market is showing a promising growth trend, and Archer aims to leverage these conditions to solidify its position within both civilian and defense sectors. As of mid-August 2023, Archer’s market capitalization stood at $6.3 billion, with company shares climbing to $9.82, a significant increase from $3.73 a year prior.
Background on Overair and Archer’s Growth
Overair was originally a spin-off from Karem Aircraft, a company recognized for its contributions to drone technology, including innovations by “drone father” Abe Karem, who developed the Predator drone. Although Overair ceased operations, its technology and expertise are now part of Archer’s efforts to advance eVTOL and defense-related aircraft.
Archer expressed enthusiasm about its forthcoming partnership with the organizers of the LA28 Olympics and NBCUniversal, aiming to showcase their innovations in transportation during one of the world’s biggest sporting events. The 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games will mark Los Angeles’s third time hosting, previously welcoming athletes in 1932 and 1984.
As Archer Aviation continues to establish its presence in Orange County, its focus on eVTOL aircraft development, military partnerships, and strategic planning for the upcoming Olympics reflects a significant push toward transforming urban air mobility and military aviation technology.
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Business Journal: Archer Aviation Expands Operations
- Wikipedia: Air Taxi
- Archer Investors: LA28 Olympic Games
- Google Search: Archer Aviation
- Smart Cities Dive: Archer Aviation and the 2028 Olympics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Aircraft
- Aerospace Manufacturing and Design: Archer Selected for LA28
- Google News: 2028 Olympics Air Taxi
- Orange County Business Journal: Archer’s Flying Taxis
- Flying Magazine: LA Olympic Games Air Taxi Provider
- Long Beach Post: Air Taxis for 2028 LA Olympics
- The Manual: Electric Aircraft for the Olympics
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
