Archer Aviation (Archer) has received certification from the FAA to launch its pilot training academy. This certification, known as Part 141, is awarded to a flight school by the FAA, signifying that it is a formally recognised and regulated institution for pilot training.
With this certification, Archer can now train and qualify pilots as part of its newly established training academy, with plans to develop a pipeline of pilots in preparation for its anticipated commercial air taxi services using its Midnight aircraft.
Archer has now obtained the third certification required by the FAA to commence air taxi operations once the Midnight receives its type certification. It previously secured its Part 135 Air Carrier & Operator Certificate from the FAA in June 2024 and, prior to that, in February 2024, its Part 145 certification. Part 142 is the fourth and final certification Archer will be pursuing, for which the application process is already underway.
“Thanks to the hard work of the Archer team and the FAA, Archer now has its Part 141 certificate in hand—yet another step towards our commercial launch. I look forward to seeing the results of this effort in the form of talented pilots who can one day be at the controls of our Midnight aircraft. The FAA continues to be an invaluable partner as we work together toward the safe entry of air taxis into the national airspace,” said Archer Chief Operating Officer, UAM Tom Anderson.
Archer's mission is to revolutionise urban travel, replacing 60–90-minute car journeys with estimated 10–20-minute electric air taxi flights that are safe, sustainable, low-noise, and cost-competitive with ground transport. Archer's Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger aircraft designed to carry out rapid back-to-back flights with minimal charging time between operations.
