Archer Aviation Joins White House eVTOL Pilot Program to Advance Electric Air Taxis
Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR) is set to participate in the White House’s newly launched eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). This is a leading initiative to accelerate electric air taxi operations in the United States.
This program, the first of its kind, brings together U.S. airlines like United Airlines, innovative companies like Archer, and interested cities to pave the way for real-world electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations.
Establishment of eIPP Program
In June 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order titled “Unleashing Drone Dominance,” which established the eIPP.
This order aims to fast-track next-generation aviation technologies, positioning the U.S. as a global leader in advanced air mobility.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are now creating pre-certification environments for eVTOL aircraft.
These environments will allow companies like Archer to conduct supervised trial operations as early as next year. This will speed up the path to full certification and commercial deployment.
The eIPP provides a framework for cities across the U.S. to collaborate with eVTOL manufacturers and operators.
Archer Aviation Collaborations
Archer is actively exploring partnerships with U.S. airlines, including United Airlines. It also works with local governments to design and execute trial operations of its Midnight aircraft.
These trials will focus on proving that eVTOL operations are safe, quiet, and scalable—key factors in gaining public trust and driving widespread adoption of this transformative technology.“
This is a landmark moment for our industry and our country,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s Founder and CEO.
“We have an Administration that is prioritizing the integration of eVTOL operations in U.S. cities in a practical way. These early flights will showcase the safety and quietness of air taxis, cementing American leadership in advanced aviation and laying the groundwork for scaled commercial operations here and abroad.”
United Airlines Investment
United Airlines, an early investor in Archer since 2021, sees the eIPP as a major step toward redefining urban mobility.
“When we invested in Archer, we believed electric air taxis could transform how passengers move in and around cities,” said Mike Leskinen, United Airlines’ Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
“This program reflects President Trump’s and Secretary Duffy’s commitment to American innovation and bringing cutting-edge technology to market for our customers.”
The eIPP is a critical milestone in transitioning eVTOL technology from development to deployment. By enabling supervised trial operations, the program will generate valuable operational data and foster community engagement.
These factors are both essential for scaling this new form of transportation. The trials will demonstrate how eVTOL aircraft can integrate into urban environments.
Conclusion
Archer’s Midnight aircraft, designed for short-distance urban flights, is poised to play a central role in these trials.
The aircraft promises to reduce travel times, alleviate traffic congestion, and lower carbon emissions, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions.
As cities and airlines collaborate under the eIPP, the program will help build the infrastructure and public confidence needed for large-scale commercialization in the coming years.
The eIPP marks a bold step forward in advancing electric air taxis, positioning the U.S. at the forefront of the global aviation industry.
With Archer and its partners leading the charge, the future of urban mobility is closer than ever.