Published on November 8, 2025
Archer Aviation, a prominent player in the field of advanced air mobility, has confirmed the acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport, located in Los Angeles, California, for a significant $126 million in cash. The 80-acre airport, also known as Jack Northrop Field, has long been a vital general aviation reliever airport in the region. With this strategic move, Archer Aviation aims to establish a robust operational base for its forthcoming air taxi network, which is set to revolutionize urban air mobility in the city.

Strategic Location in Los Angeles

The acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport places Archer Aviation in a prime position within the bustling Los Angeles metropolitan area. Situated just three miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), the airport offers both strategic accessibility and proximity to one of the world’s busiest air travel hubs. With direct connections to key freeways and private VIP facilities, Hawthorne Municipal Airport is uniquely equipped to support Archer’s innovative air taxi services.

A Vision for the Future of Urban Air Mobility

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Archer Aviation has long been at the forefront of pioneering eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft, designed to facilitate urban air mobility on a large scale. The company’s acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport is a critical step in the development of Archer’s air taxi network. Expected to launch ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, the network will enable quick, efficient and environmentally sustainable air transportation within the city. Archer Aviation envisions a future where urban air mobility is seamlessly integrated into the fabric of daily life in major cities and the Hawthorne Municipal Airport acquisition will play a crucial role in making this vision a reality.

Flagship Hub for LA’s Air Taxi Operations

Once operational, Hawthorne Municipal Airport will serve as the flagship hub for Archer’s air taxi network, connecting passengers to key city destinations, including LAX and other major locations in Los Angeles. This move is part of Archer’s plan to provide a cutting-edge, AI-powered aviation solution for a city known for its sprawling traffic and high demand for efficient transportation.

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In addition to serving as a hub for air taxi services, the airport will be used as a base for testing and developing Archer’s innovative aviation technologies. The company plans to redevelop roughly 200,000 square feet of hangar space, which will be utilized for aircraft testing, charging and maintenance. These advanced facilities will play a pivotal role in ensuring that Archer’s eVTOL aircraft meet the stringent operational and safety standards required for commercial use.

Partnerships and Integration with Existing Infrastructure

Archer’s acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport also includes plans to integrate with the airport’s existing infrastructure. The company intends to acquire a 75% stake in Jet Center Los Angeles, the airport’s fixed-base operator. This acquisition will allow Archer to create a unified platform that will provide essential services such as fueling, aircraft handling and air taxi operations. The integration of these services will streamline Archer’s operations and enhance the overall efficiency of its air taxi network.

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The current management team of Hawthorne Municipal Airport, which has been managing the facility through a public-private partnership since 2005, will remain in place following the acquisition. This continuity ensures a smooth transition and helps maintain the operational stability of the airport as Archer moves forward with its ambitious plans.

The Role of AI in Archer’s Aviation Systems

One of the standout features of Archer’s air taxi network will be its integration of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to manage air traffic and ground operations. Archer has been developing AI-powered tools in collaboration with various technology and airline partners to optimize the entire air travel process, from aircraft routing to passenger check-in. The acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport will provide Archer with a real-world testing environment where these AI systems can be fine-tuned and integrated into operational procedures.
The airport’s role as an AI testbed is a significant aspect of Archer’s long-term strategy to advance aviation technology and reshape the future of air transportation. By leveraging AI, Archer plans to improve operational efficiency, enhance safety and create a seamless travel experience for passengers.

Support from the Aviation Industry

Archer Aviation’s progress in the development of its air taxi network has been met with enthusiastic support from key players in the aviation industry. United Airlines Chief Financial Officer, Michael Leskinen, expressed confidence in Archer’s trajectory, stating that the company’s advancements in eVTOL technology align with the airline’s investment strategy. He emphasized that the integration of eVTOLs into the aviation ecosystem will play a key role in reshaping air traffic technology in the years to come.
As Archer continues to push the boundaries of urban air mobility, the acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport represents a significant step forward. With the airport now serving as the centerpiece of Archer’s air taxi network, the company is well-positioned to lead the charge in transforming how people travel in Los Angeles and beyond.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Urban Air Mobility

The acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport by Archer Aviation marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of urban air mobility. As Los Angeles prepares for the launch of Archer’s air taxi network before the 2028 Summer Olympics, the city is set to become a testing ground for the next generation of air transportation. Archer’s ambitious plans for Hawthorne Municipal Airport are just the beginning of what promises to be a groundbreaking shift in how people move around urban centers.
Archer’s vision for a sustainable, efficient and AI-driven air taxi service is a testament to the company’s commitment to shaping the future of aviation. With the strategic acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport, Archer is positioning itself as a leader in the urban air mobility space, laying the groundwork for a new era in air travel.

Conclusion

Archer Aviation’s acquisition of Hawthorne Municipal Airport is a game-changer for the Los Angeles transportation landscape. With its strategic location, advanced facilities and plans for AI integration, the airport is set to become the cornerstone of Archer’s air taxi network, which will redefine urban mobility. As the company continues to develop and test its eVTOL aircraft, the acquisition is a crucial step in making the future of urban air travel a reality.
Image- archer.com

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Tags: 2028 Olympics Transportation, Archer Aviation, Hawthorne Municipal Airport, Los Angeles air taxi, Urban Air Mobility

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