Archer teams up with Starlink to bring internet access to its Midnight air taxi
The announcement marks an “industry-first collaboration,” says Archer.
Air taxi maker and defense contractor Archer Aviation announced on Friday that it’s teaming up with SpaceX’s Starlink.
The company will install Starlink’s satellite internet into its Midnight aircraft for use by passengers during future air taxi flights. Archer says the service will also “enable communications between Midnight, pilots, and engineering teams on the ground.”
The companies plan to work together to develop connectivity solutions for Archer’s planned autonomous aircraft.
“Connectivity is a must-have feature for Midnight. 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,” Archer CEO Adam Goldstein said.
Previous rumored tie-ups with Elon Musk-led companies have sent Archer’s shares surging in the past. In October, social posts from Archer and Tesla fueled speculation that Archer was announcing a collaboration of some kind with the EV maker. The rumors proved inaccurate.
Earlier this week, Archer sued UK rival Vertical Aerospace, alleging that the company illegally copied Midnight’s design. In a statement to Sherwood News, a Vertical spokesperson said the allegations were “without merit” and “merely an attempt to distract from Archer’s challenges competing in the marketplace.”
