Archer Aviation announced that it has completed the first phase of its transaction to acquire control of Hawthorne Airport in Los Angeles. The deal, finalized on December 10 2025, gives Archer ownership of the 80‑acre master lease from the City of Hawthorne and all associated subleases, granting the company full control of the airport’s real‑estate footprint.
The master lease was valued at $126 million, a figure disclosed in the transaction documents. Archer will also acquire the fixed‑base operator and passenger terminal in a second phase that is expected to close later in 2026, expanding its operational capacity and service offerings.
Hawthorne Airport’s proximity—less than three miles from LAX—positions Archer to launch its Midnight eVTOL air‑taxi network in a major U.S. market and to serve as a testbed for AI‑powered aviation technologies. The airport is slated to host air‑taxi operations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games, giving Archer a high‑profile platform to demonstrate its technology.
While Archer remains unprofitable, with an EBITDA of –$601.6 million over the last twelve months, the company holds a strong cash position that exceeds its debt load. This financial cushion supports continued investment in infrastructure, regulatory approvals, and the scaling of its Midnight platform.
Archer’s FAA certification status for the Midnight eVTOL remains pending, but the company has advanced through multiple flight‑test milestones and is actively engaging with regulators. The acquisition strengthens Archer’s competitive position against peers such as Joby Aviation, Lilium, and Vertical Aerospace, all of whom are pursuing FAA certification.
Investors have responded positively to the announcement, citing the strategic advantage of securing a profitable airport asset and the opportunity to capitalize on the 2028 Olympic Games. The acquisition is expected to enhance Archer’s long‑term growth prospects and solidify its leadership in the emerging urban air‑mobility market.
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