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Archer Aviation

by Andrew Oh

#ArcherAviation



Here’s the latest snapshot for Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR):




Company Overview & Strategy


Founded in 2018 and headquartered in San Jose, California, Archer Aviation is developing “Midnight,” a four-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxi intended for short-city hops of 20–50 miles and up to 100-mile range at ~150 mph .


Major corporate backers include United Airlines—which has placed a $1.5 billion order—and Stellantis, involved in manufacturing support .




Tech & Certification Highlights

• Battery innovation & safety testing:

• High-volume, automotive-style battery pack line delivering up to 15,000 packs annually, undergoing stringent drop and certification tests  .

• Partnership with Molicel ensures top-tier cylindrical lithium-ion cells . NASA collaboration adds third-party safety validation under a Space Act Agreement .

• Flight trials & expansion:

• Piloted test flights under way, including one in Abu Dhabi aimed at global certification .

• AI-pilot integration:

• Exploring AI-powered flight manuals and safety tools in partnership with Palantir, announced at Paris Air Show .




Financial & Market Position


• Cash & Funding: Able to raise $850 million in June 2025, boosting liquidity to ~$2 billion .

• Stock performance: Despite a +35% gain YTD, stock has plateaued due to slower certification and testing momentum compared to competitors like Joby


• Analyst sentiment: Financial commentary notes strong fundamentals and capital buffer, but highlights flat recent share activity




Opportunities & Risks

• Opportunities

• Strong strategic partnerships (United, Palantir, Stellantis, Molicel, NASA).

• Official air-taxi provider selection for Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

• Environmental appeal: zero emissions, lower noise, potential carbon-offset credentials .

• Risks

• Certification delays (FAA Type Certification expected late 2025).

• Technical issues in testing, including battery and safety validation.

• Competitive headwinds; rivals (Joby, Beta) advancing swiftly  .




Final Summary


Archer Aviation is well-capitalized and technologically advancing toward launching urban air mobility services. Its battery-first approach, backed by NASA and manufacturing support from Stellantis, is a core strength.


However, the path to commercialization hinges on timely certification and proving its in-air safety. With commercial service potentially launching around the 2028 LA Olympics, the company is at a pivotal pre-revenue stage.


#2028LAOlympics



• Certification timeline & milestones

• Competitor breakdown (e.g. Joby, Lilium)

•United Airlines partnership & pricing model

• Stock volume trends or analyst ratings

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