Archer Selected as Potential Air Taxi Provider for LA 2028 Olympics Pending FAA Approval

Archer Aviation has been named the official air taxi provider for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games, although its operations hinge on gaining full certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The company’s Midnight eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft could potentially transport VIPs, fans, and staff between Olympic venues, while also supporting emergency and security services. Archer, along with Joby Aviation, is among the few companies to have received the FAA’s final airworthiness criteria for their eVTOLs, though neither has yet received final certification to operate.

The Midnight aircraft, which can carry up to four passengers, is designed for low noise and emissions compared to helicopters. It features 12 tilting rotors, fixed wings, and a tail, allowing it to take off vertically before transitioning to forward flight. The aircraft is built with safety and redundancy in mind, aiming to meet commercial aviation safety standards.

Archer has proposed air taxi routes in major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, and its existing plans for a Los Angeles network likely influenced its Olympic selection. The network would connect key sites including the LA Memorial Coliseum, Inglewood Stadium, LAX, Hollywood, and other strategic locations. While supported by major aviation and automotive players, including United Airlines and Fiat Chrysler, achieving FAA certification remains a major hurdle.