Archer Aviation Soars: Ex-FAA Head Powers eVTOL Progress

Today, Archer Aviation, an Air Taxi manufacturer, announced the appointment of former Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) acting administrator Billy Nolen as their new Chief Safety Officer. This noteworthy addition to their team underlines the company’s commitment to safety as they work towards commercializing their electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) aircraft by 2025.

In May, Archer Aviation successfully completed the assembly of its first “Midnight” eVTOL, a significant milestone for the California-based company. Capable of accommodating a pilot and four passengers, the innovative aircraft boasts a range of up to 100 miles.

“Billy is an incredible leader and has long been a staunch supporter of the eVTOL aircraft industry, spearheading our country’s and the FAA’s global leadership role in this important area,” Adam Goldstein, Archer’s founder and CEO, praised Nolen. Archer hopes that Nolen’s expertise will enable more effective collaborations with industry stakeholders and ensure the safe deployment of its eVTOL aircraft.

Nolen’s move to Archer comes after his announcement to step down from the FAA in April, a decision that followed the withdrawal of Denver International Repülőtér CEO Phil Washington’s nomination for FAA administrator amid Republican criticism. In a departure email, Nolen optimistically stated, “we will see eVTOLs certified in just a few years, instead of decades… Not since the dawn of the jet age have we seen so many advances and changes in aerospace.”

While Archer advances its goals under new leadership, changes are also underway at the FAA. Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Transportation Department, Polly Trottenberg, was announced as the acting head of the FAA last week. In addition to this role, she continues her work with the USDOT. Furthermore, President Joe Biden plans to appoint Katie Thomson, currently the FAA’s chief of staff, as deputy administrator, replacing Bradley Mims.

Archer’s significant strides and leadership changes echo the broader dynamic shifts in the aviation industry, signaling an exciting era of innovation and progress.