Archer receives $10m deposit from United Airlines for 100 eVTOL aircraft

Archer said that the payment represents a watershed moment for the eVTOL industry, validating confidence in the commercialisation of eVTOL aircraft. United agreed to the purchase in 2021.

Having recently completed its production aircraft’s Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Archer is now advancing to the next stage of development and commercialisation. The PDR is a meticulous review of the aircraft design to ensure the programme is on track and the design is mature enough to proceed to the next development phase and kick-off production of long lead time hardware.

The PDR lays out all aspects of the aircraft’s specifications and manufacturing requirements, which are necessary pre-conditions for determining that the design is feasible for regulatory compliance and viable to bring to market.

United’s decision to place a deposit for 100 of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft signals its desire to be one of the first airline operators in the US to bring eVTOL aircraft to market. The pre-delivery cash deposit continues a trend of strong support by the airline throughout development of its aircraft.

Recently, United formed a Joint eVTOL Advisory Committee with Archer, allowing the parties to work more closely on eVTOL maintenance and operational matters. Committee members include Archer’s operations and maintenance leadership, as well as leadership from United’s maintenance, materials, and engineering groups. 

“I am incredibly proud of the entire Archer team as we reach this milestone in our partnership with United Airlines,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s CEO.  “To receive a cash deposit is validation of Archer’s achievements to date, not only with flight testing and product development, but also a great signal of confidence in our roadmap to commercialisation. We’re thankful to United for their continued partnership as we usher in this new era in air travel.”

Michael Leskinen, president of United Airlines Ventures said: “We are witnessing an inflection point where consumers, businesses, and policymakers are all aligned to prioritise technology that reduces the impact of climate change.

“United Airlines Ventures has invested in a diverse roster of companies working in support of our goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2050, without the use of traditional carbon offsets. 

“We believe eVTOLs have the potential to both help achieve carbon-neutral travel and serve as an innovative new tool to change how United customers experience comfort, convenience, and efficiency during their commutes within cities across the globe.”

In what ways do you think United’s $10m deposit in 100 Archer aircraft ‘validates confidence in the commercialisation of eVTOL aircraft’? Comment on this story and join the debate below.