Latest news with #VTOL
Economy ME
10 hours ago
- Automotive
- Economy ME
Abu Dhabi successfully completes first test flight of 'Midnight' flying taxi
Archer announced on Wednesday the successful completion of an initial flight of its Midnight flying taxi at Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen Executive Airport, marking a key milestone for its planned commercial deployment in the UAE and the expansion of its operations in the Middle East region. Abu Dhabi's latest milestone comes amid a major push in the UAE to advance tests, infrastructure and legislation in a bid to adopt advanced air mobility as soon as 2026. Earlier in the day, the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) issued the world's first regulatory framework for hybrid operations , enabling both flying taxis and conventional helicopters to operate interchangeably on the same infrastructure. By enabling dual-use between conventional helicopter pads and landing pads for flying taxis, this initiative helps accelerate the implementation timelines in the UAE, optimizes infrastructure utilization and cements the UAE's position as a leader in fostering an integrated ecosystem supporting the future of aviation. Archer seeks regional expansion following Abu Dhabi success With the support of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), Archer's test flight was witnessed by senior leadership from the UAE GCAA, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Integrated Transport Center, Abu Dhabi Aviation and Abu Dhabi Airports, along with representatives from Archer's regional partners. Focused on evaluating the flying taxi's VTOL performance in UAE-specific conditions, including temperature, humidity and dust exposure, the test flight allows Archer to validate readiness for commercial deployment. Following this milestone in Abu Dhabi, Archer will expand its flight-testing program for the Midnight flying taxi in the region, gathering additional data to support its certification and commercialization plans in both the UAE and other key markets. 'This flight marks a significant step towards realizing Abu Dhabi's ambition to lead the world in advanced urban air mobility. Through the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) Cluster, we are enabling companies like Archer to test, certify and scale next-generation air mobility solutions, reinforcing our position as a global launchpad for innovation and a hub for transformative technologies,' said Badr Al-Olama, director general of ADIO. Read: Dubai completes region's first Joby Aerial Taxi test flight, says Sheikh Hamdan Achievement builds on approval of UAE's first hybrid heliport The test flight supports Archer's Launch Edition commercialization program with Abu Dhabi Aviation, which aims to establish flying taxi services in Abu Dhabi. The announcement comes as Archer continues to advance its certification and commercialization efforts in the UAE and beyond, building on recent achievements, including regulatory design approval for the UAE's first hybrid heliport at Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal and ongoing partnerships with leading regional operators. 'Our initial test flight operations in the UAE represent a critical milestone as we prepare for our commercial deployment in Abu Dhabi. Testing our aircraft in actual operating conditions in the middle of summer provides us with the data we need to progress our commercial and certification efforts both in the UAE and in the U.S.,' said Adam Goldstein, CEO and founder of Archer Aviation. The Launch Edition program represents Archer's approach to establishing commercial operations in key early adopter markets. Abu Dhabi's role as Archer's first Launch Edition market positions the emirate as a global leader in urban air mobility deployment, demonstrating Abu Dhabi's commitment to innovative transport and sustainable mobility solutions.
Globe and Mail
11 hours ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Archer Begins Test Flights in Abu Dhabi
Archer (NYSE: ACHR) today announced the successful completion of an initial flight of its Midnight aircraft at Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi, marking a key milestone for its planned commercial deployment in the UAE and the expansion of its operations in the Middle East region. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: Archer's Midnight aircraft flying at Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi With the support of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), the flight was witnessed by senior leadership from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Integrated Transport Centre, Abu Dhabi Aviation and Abu Dhabi Airports, along with representatives from Archer's regional partners. Focused on evaluating the aircraft's VTOL performance in UAE-specific conditions including temperature, humidity and dust exposure, the test flight allows Archer to validate readiness for commercial deployment. Following this milestone, Archer will expand its flight-testing program for Midnight in the region, gathering additional data to support its certification and commercialization plans in both the UAE and other key markets. 'This flight marks a significant step towards realising Abu Dhabi's ambition to lead the world in advanced urban air mobility,' said H.E. Badr Al-Olama, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office. 'Through the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) Cluster, we are enabling companies like Archer to test, certify and scale next-generation air mobility solutions, reinforcing our position as a global launchpad for innovation and a hub for transformative technologies.' 'Our initial test flight operations in the UAE represent a critical milestone as we prepare for our commercial deployment in Abu Dhabi,' said Adam Goldstein, CEO and Founder of Archer Aviation. 'Testing our aircraft in actual operating conditions in the middle of summer provides us with the data we need to progress our commercial and certification efforts both in the UAE and in the U.S.' The test flight supports Archer's Launch Edition commercialization program with Abu Dhabi Aviation, which aims to establish air taxi services in Abu Dhabi. The announcement comes as Archer continues to advance its certification and commercialization efforts in the UAE and beyond, building on recent achievements including regulatory design approval for the UAE's first hybrid heliport at Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal and ongoing partnerships with leading regional operators. The Launch Edition program represents Archer's approach to establishing commercial operations in key early adopter markets. Abu Dhabi's role as Archer's first Launch Edition market positions the emirate as a global leader in urban air mobility deployment, demonstrating Abu Dhabi's commitment to innovative transport and sustainable mobility solutions. About Archer Archer is designing and developing the key enabling technologies and aircraft necessary to power the future of aviation. To learn more, visit Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward looking statements regarding Archer's future business plans and goals, including statements regarding the development, flight testing, commercialization, and certification of its aircraft and the plans for its 'Launch Edition' program. In addition, this press release refers to a partnership that is conditioned on the future execution by the parties of additional binding definitive agreements incorporating the terms outlined in the memorandum of understanding, which definitive agreements may not be completed or may contain different terms than those set forth in the framework agreement. These forward-looking statements are only predictions and may differ materially from actual results due to a variety of factors. The risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the results predicted are more fully detailed in Archer's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, available at In addition, please note that any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on assumptions that Archer believes to be reasonable as of the date of this press release. Archer undertakes no obligation to update these statements as a result of new information or future events.
Globe and Mail
25-06-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Buy on Archer Aviation and Sees 30% Upside
Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Andres Sheppard has reaffirmed an Overweight rating and a $13.00 price target on Archer Aviation (ACHR), implying nearly 30%. The note highlights Archer's expanding list of strategic partnerships and a strong liquidity position as key drivers of growth. Confident Investing Starts Here: Archer's Collaboration Serves as Key Catalyst Sheppard points to collaborations with Anduril, the U.S. Department of Defense, Stellantis (STLA), and United Airlines (UAL) as differentiators that help boost Archer's total addressable market, streamline manufacturing, and support commercialization. These partners give the company access to defense contracts, mass production capabilities, and commercial flight routes. In the defense sector, Archer's work with Anduril focuses on developing hybrid-propulsion vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Its $142 million contract with the U.S. Air Force's Agility Prime program is already generating near-term revenue. The company has also established a dedicated defense division staffed by experienced military aviation professionals, improving its credibility in the sector. Cantor's reiteration reflects confidence in Archer's business model, funding runway, and the strategic value of its partners across aviation, automotive, and defense. On the manufacturing side, Stellantis serves as Archer's exclusive contract manufacturer for its Midnight aircraft. The global automaker is contributing capital, production facilities, and staff to support Archer's scale-up. This partnership is designed to lower costs and speed up timelines by using Stellantis' automotive manufacturing playbook. Sufficient Cash to Complete Certifications Financially, Archer recently raised $850 million through a direct equity offering in June 2025. Combined with a $430 million raise in late 2024, the company now has about $2 billion in pro forma liquidity. This capital is expected to support FAA certification, facility buildout, and international expansion. Archer is aiming to launch its eVTOL services in the UAE by late 2025, with future plans in Indonesia and Ethiopia. The company currently holds an order backlog of about $6 billion and is working with international stakeholders to develop supporting infrastructure like vertiports and air traffic systems. In a broader perspective, Archer Aviation scores a Moderate Buy rating based on 6 analysts. The average ACHR stock price target is $11.75, implying a 17.50% upside. See more ACHR analyst ratings
Sustainability Times
22-06-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'They Built It With No Experience': First-Time Maker's 3D-Printed Drone Flies 130 Miles in 3 Hours Without Failing Once
IN A NUTSHELL 🚁 Tsung Xu designed and built a fully functional VTOL drone using 3D printing technology. designed and built a fully functional using technology. 🛠️ Completed in just 90 days, Xu's project relied on a Bambu Lab A1 3D printer for crafting aerodynamic surfaces. for crafting aerodynamic surfaces. 🔋 The drone can fly up to 130 miles on a single charge, showcasing impressive endurance and power optimization. on a single charge, showcasing impressive endurance and power optimization. 🌟 Xu's achievement highlights the potential of consumer-grade innovation in advancing amateur aerospace engineering. In the world of innovation, where technology continuously reshapes the boundaries of possibility, the story of Tsung Xu stands out as a remarkable testament to individual ingenuity. Without a formal background in aerospace engineering, Xu embarked on an ambitious journey to design and build a fully functional vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone using 3D printing technology. His achievement is not just a personal victory but a significant milestone in amateur aerospace engineering. This article delves into the fascinating process and the groundbreaking outcome of Xu's project, highlighting how consumer-grade technology is redefining the limits of what individuals can achieve. First-Time Maker's Drone Xu's journey into drone-making began with a bold vision and an unwavering commitment to innovation. Despite lacking formal training in aerodynamic modeling, 3D printing, or computer-aided design (CAD), Xu managed to execute his project within a mere 90 days. This undertaking was a testament to his dedication and resourcefulness. He meticulously documented the process, offering a detailed build log and a compelling video presentation on YouTube, which serves as both an inspiration and a guide for other aspiring creators. The drone was crafted entirely from scratch, with Xu adopting a bottom-up approach. He designed, modeled, and printed each aerodynamic surface and structural component himself, relying on a Bambu Lab A1 3D printer. This desktop device, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in independent reviews, proved to be the backbone of his prototyping efforts. The printer allowed Xu to rapidly iterate on complex aerodynamic shapes, facilitating the creation of the drone's composite parts. Critical non-printable components, such as radio equipment, motors, and electronic speed controllers (ESCs), were sourced separately, but Xu skillfully integrated these systems to ensure seamless functionality. 'This Thing Shouldn't Exist': Scientists Stunned as Humanity Witnesses This Deep-Sea Monster Alive for the First Time Ever 130-Mile Range The drone's impressive capabilities stem from its efficient design and power optimization. With a wingspan tailored for optimal glide and a robust VTOL propulsion system, the drone achieved an endurance of approximately three hours. This allows it to cover a distance of 130 miles on a single charge. Such performance is typically reserved for advanced military or commercial unmanned aerial systems (UAS), underscoring the significance of Xu's achievement. The winged VTOL design enables vertical launch and recovery without the need for a runway, transitioning to efficient forward flight once airborne. This capability, combined with Xu's strategic endurance planning, demonstrates how consumer-accessible technologies are rapidly closing the gap between hobbyist experimentation and advanced aerospace development. Although Xu did not provide a full technical breakdown, he emphasized the steep learning curves he faced, including understanding flight dynamics, sourcing components, and identifying design failures during the printing and assembly process. 2.6 Million Golden Eggs: Secret Volcano Nursery Uncovered as Alien-Like Marine Species Breeds in Ice-Cold Death Zone Innovation in DIY Aerospace Xu's project is a microcosm of a broader trend in the world of aerospace and defense technology. As institutions like the U.S. Army expand their initiatives to incorporate additive manufacturing and autonomous systems, Xu's civilian project echoes these trends by showcasing the potential of low-cost, decentralized innovation. His achievement highlights how individuals, armed with determination and accessible technology, can contribute to fields traditionally dominated by large corporations and government entities. This democratization of technology has profound implications for the future of research and development. Xu's work demonstrates that groundbreaking advancements are no longer confined to well-funded labs but can emerge from garages and small workshops. His drone serves as a proof of concept for the power of consumer-grade innovation, potentially inspiring a new generation of inventors to explore uncharted territories. 'Earth's Core Is Acting Up': NASA Links Planet-Wide Disturbance to Mysterious Energy Surge Emerging From Deep Within the Mantle The Future of Consumer-Grade Innovation The success of Xu's project raises important questions about the future of consumer-grade innovation. As technologies like 3D printing become more accessible and affordable, the line between professional and amateur innovation blurs. This democratization empowers individuals to tackle complex challenges, potentially leading to breakthroughs in areas as diverse as aerospace, healthcare, and environmental science. Xu's journey is a reminder that innovation is not the sole domain of experts, but a field open to anyone with passion and perseverance. His VTOL drone, a product of creativity and resourcefulness, challenges us to rethink what is possible and encourages us to explore our own potential. As we look to the future, we must ask ourselves: How will the next wave of consumer-grade innovation reshape our world, and what role will we play in it? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.3/5 (23)
Associated Press
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- Associated Press
Jetoptera Executes FETT for FTC-250 at Paris Air Show 2025
PARIS, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On the occasion of Jetoptera's debut at the Paris Air Show 2025, we are proud to announce the successful completion of the first test of the engine that will power the J-500, the 500-lb VTOL cargo unmanned aircraft system Jetoptera is developing in collaboration with Eanan Al Samma, for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market. The First Engine To Test (FETT) was evaluated at the VAN DER LEE Turbo Systems facilities in Zaandam, The Netherlands. The 250 kW turbocompressor, that is the heart of the Fluidic Propulsive System™, is a two-shaft engine using a free turbine that is mechanically coupled to a two-stage axial compressor designed to produce the appropriate flow rates and pressure ratios required by the FPS™. 'The FETT demonstrated a very smooth startup and operability when operated in a turbofan mode. The engine was instrumented in this configuration, to monitor pressure and temperature as well as thrust produced. The next step includes the performance mapping of the turbocompressor, followed by the integration with the FPS™ onto the J-500 airframe,' said Dr Andrei Evulet, CEO/CTO of Jetoptera, Inc. The J-500 prototype is developed specifically for the UAE and MENA market and will be uniquely enabled by the FPS™ to perform unmanned cargo missions with VTOL and unmatched speed, low noise, and reliability thanks to the patented propulsion system. The modularity of the FTC-250 system allows its components to operate in turbojet, turbofan and FPS™ modes. Jetoptera and Eanan Al Samma thank Parametric Solutions, Inc. and VAN DER LEE Turbo Systems for their critical support in the design and manufacturing of the unique FTC-250 architecture in record time. For information about this press release please contact Todd Newton [email protected] Jetoptera, Inc. Facebook: LinkedIn: A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
