
Archer Takes Flight!

Archer Aviation achieved a key milestone in its flight test program: the first piloted conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) of its Midnight eVTOL aircraft!
Jeff Greenwood, Archer’s Chief Test Pilot and former USMC aviator, flew the aircraft at 125 mph, climbing more than 1,500 feet before a clean landing at Salinas Municipal Airport. The flight validates simulator training and marks another step toward FAA certification.
While Midnight is built for vertical operations, its CTOL test provides Archer critical data on aerodynamic performance, handling, and systems integration at full speed. Future tests will focus on transition flights and VTOL operations.
Greenwood’s postflight assessment – “handled just like the simulator” – signals confidence in Midnight’s readiness.
With over 100 test flights logged, Archer is progressing toward commercial operations in the U.S. and UAE.
Watch the full test flight here.
Recommended Reading
Have you ever wondered why we don’t have flying cars?
J. Storrs Hall’s “Where’s My Flying Car?” explains the innovation stagnation in aviation and how we can get back on track.
It’s a must-read for early adopters.
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Godspeed – Rosebee