Developer of the Midnight eVTOL, with FAA Phase 3 closed in April 2026 and Phase 4 formal compliance testing and analysis in progress.
Propulsion Architecture
12 propellers total (Distributed Electric Propulsion): 6 tilt-propellers (5 blades each) for both vertical lift and forward cruise, plus 6 fixed propellers (2 blades each) dedicated to vertical flight only. 12 electric motors across 6 independent battery packs, with no single critical point of failure.
Primary Certification Context
FAA Powered-Lift
Strengths
Archer reported closure of FAA Phase 3 in April 2026 and ongoing Phase 4 compliance testing and analysis. Its 2026 flight-test program has included repeated piloted VTOL and CTOL flights, and the company has also completed piloted city-to-city Midnight flights while preparing for eIPP operations.
Primary evidence: Q1 2026 certification update; Q2 2026 update.
Weaknesses / Open Questions
Midnight has not received an FAA Type Certificate. Phase 4 requires the remaining formal compliance demonstrations, tests and analyses, followed by the production and operating approvals applicable to intended passenger service. Archer’s UAE restricted-certification pathway and U.S. eIPP activity are separate from the FAA Type Certificate.
Last Updated
September 18, 2026
