Archer Aviation Inc. will install Starlink’s Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite internet system into its Midnight electric air taxi under a newly announced agreement between the two companies.
Archer will conduct testing of the system to provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity during flight operations. The collaboration marks Starlink’s entry into the emerging air mobility category and is described as an industry-first effort.
Midnight is Archer’s piloted electric air taxi designed to carry up to four passengers while producing less noise and emissions than a traditional helicopter. The aircraft incorporates redundant systems across 12 engines and propellers, allowing Archer to target safety levels comparable to commercial airliners.
In addition to passenger internet access, the Starlink system is planned to support communications between the aircraft, pilots and ground-based engineering teams as part of Archer’s air taxi connectivity infrastructure. The companies also intend to work together on a connectivity solution to support the future development of autonomous aircraft.
Starlink’s LEO constellation differs from traditional aviation connectivity systems that rely on ground towers or geostationary satellites. The network is engineered to provide consistent, high-bandwidth coverage at low flight altitudes and in dense urban environments, where Midnight is expected to operate at approximately 1,500 feet.
Archer aims to enable passengers to travel across cities in five to 15 minutes, reducing travel times compared to ground transportation. Starlink is intended to provide consistent connectivity throughout those flights.
