Archer partners with Starlink to bring connectivity to Midnight air taxis

Archer Aviation has announced an agreement with Starlink to bring high-speed connectivity to its air taxis.The industry-first collaboration marks Starlink's entry into the advanced air mobility category. Archer will install Starlink's LEO satellite internet system into its Midnight eVTOL aircraft and conduct testing. While the system is designed to provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity, it will also be used to enable communications between Midnight pilots and engineering teams on the ground. The companies also plan to develop a connectivity solution that can help power Archer's future development of autonomous aircraft. "Connectivity is a must-have feature for Midnight," said Adam Goldstein, Archer founder and CEO. "Starlink is uniquely built to deliver it. This industry-first collaboration will enable seamless, high-speed connectivity and essential amenities for our passengers and pilots." Trips on the Midnight are supposed to last 5 to 15 minutes, with Starlink providing consistent connectivity throughout. Archer claims Starlink is uniquely suited to next-generation platforms due to its ability to provide coverage at low flight altitudes and in areas where cellular coverage is often unreliable. RELATED STORIES: Archer Aviation files patent infringement complaint against Vertical Joby and Uber announce in-app booking for air taxisArcher to develop aviation AI technology with NVIDIA IGX ThorThe Midnight eVTOL can carry up to four passengers while producing less noise and emissions than a traditional helicopter. It is built with 12 total engines and propellers for redundancy to provide similar levels of safety as commercial aircraft. Archer designed the aircraft to blend into the background of urban life, as it will operate in and around cities at altitudes of approximately 1,500 ft.