Archer Aviation has unveiled plans to launch an air taxi network in Los Angeles ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This service could replace one-to-two-hour drives with 10-20 minute flights using electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The planned network includes take-off and landing locations at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), the University of Southern California (USC), Orange County, Santa Monica, Hollywood Burbank, Long Beach and Van Nuys.
Archer is also coordinating with the Los Angeles Rams and Hollywood Park, the 300-acre district centred around SoFi Stadium, for a potential vertiport in the area.
The operator plans to launch operations across the new LA network from as early as 2026.
Adam Goldstein, CEO of Archer said:This is a big moment for Archer. Establishing our LA network ahead of the global events that are coming to the region over the next four years is a milestone that will put Midnight on display for the whole world to see. LA is known for its horrendous traffic—our goal is to offer a safer, faster and sustainable alternative travel option.
Archer’s four-passenger, piloted Midnight electric aircraft will play a key role in this network.
It can travel at speeds of up to 150 mph, completing back-to-back flights of 20-50 miles with minimal charge time in between.
Governor Gavin Newsom said:California is showing the world what’s possible when you embrace innovation, entrepreneurship and clean energy to help solve your biggest challenges. Homegrown companies like Archer Aviation are pioneering the next generation of zero-emission transportation that will help California cut pollution, clean our air and reduce traffic.
This announcement complements Archer’s planned network in the San Francisco Bay Area as well as its recently announced relationships with Southwest Airlines and United Airlines.
It follows Archer’s successful transition flight with Midnight, certification to begin operating as a commercial airline and rapid progress on its manufacturing plant in Covington, GA.
