Archer Aviation uses SpaceX's Starlink satellites to maintain communication with its air taxis

Archer Aviation has signed an agreement with SpaceX to use Starlink

The Archer Aviation company (San Jose), which is developing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), announced that as part of a new partnership it will use the Starlink satellite internet service. The service will allow air taxi operations to be controlled and provide passenger connectivity during flights.

What’s planned
* Aircraft – Archer is developing a four‑seat eVTOL called *Midnight*. It is intended for short urban hops (up to 15 minutes).

* Connectivity and control – Starlink will serve as the primary communication system with ground stations, as well as a channel for passengers. While internet access is important for passengers, in Archer’s case the satellite network appears more justified for infrastructure oversight and flight safety.

Industry context
* Archer is the first eVTOL developer to sign a contract with SpaceX.
The list of operators using Starlink in their air transport already grows: Eve Air Mobility, Joby Aviation, and others.

* The goal of all these projects is rapid movement of people around megacities, including transfers to airports.

Company plans
1. Air taxi network – In December last year Archer announced the creation of a network of takeoff and landing points in Miami and surrounding areas near major airports.

2. Exclusive operator for the 2028 Olympics – In May the company became the sole air‑taxi operator for the Olympic Games to be held in Los Angeles.

Expert skepticism
Despite all the announcements, specialists doubt that within two years air taxis will actually be actively flying over cities. The question remains open: how quickly technology and infrastructure can reach readiness for widespread deployment.