Archer Aviation (ACHR) has taken another step in its plan to introduce air taxi service to the United Arab Emirates. The company completed a full flight test run in the country, with each run demonstrating that its Midnight craft can lift off, transition to level flight, and fly on fixed wings. The tests took place in hot and sandy areas, and each test was meant to show that the craft can work in the local climate. In turn, this laid the foundation for Archer as it worked to start service in the region.
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Moreover, the tests were done with the help of the General Civil Aviation Authority and the Integrated Transport Centre. This point matters since each group will guide the rules for flight use in the area. As a result, Archer says these tests give it stronger ground as it moves to gain full use rights.
Meanwhile, ACHR shares continued their negative trend on Friday and dropped another 1.01% to close at $7.88. Overall, the stock lost over 19% year-to-date.
Work on Rules and Training Keeps Pace
Next, Archer says it has begun to get payments from Abu Dhabi Aviation after both sides set a firm plan for the Launch Edition program. This step gives the company early cash for work tied to the first wave of craft in the region. At the same time, it hosted the General Civil Aviation Authority in San Jose to keep its rule path on track.
In addition, Archer is working with Etihad Aviation Training to build its pilot plan. This work aims to help the first pilots learn how to fly the Midnight craft in real use once flights begin. The group is also setting up its plan for upkeep of the craft. Meanwhile, the move by Abu Dhabi to build more than ten sites for air taxi use may help Archer if demand grows. The sites will sit under the watch of the Integrated Transport Centre, and each site will serve as a link point for early trips.
Overall, Archer says the close work with local teams and the early tests give it a path toward first lift in the region. The company still needs full rule approval, yet each step shows that work on tests, pilots, and sites is moving at a steady pace.
Is Archer Aviation Stock a Good Buy?
Despite the stock’s steep decline in 2025, the Street’s analysts remain optimistic about the company’s prospects. Based on seven recent ratings, Archer Aviation boasts a “Strong Buy” consensus with an average ACHR stock price target of $12.20. This implies a 54.82% upside from the current price.
