Archer and Beta Launch US Electric Air Taxi Charger Network Targeting 250 Sites by 2030

Archer Aviation and Beta Technologies announced the formation of the Consortium for Electric Skyways (ACES), targeting deployment of up to 250 electric aircraft charging locations by 2030 across key US states such as New York, Florida, California, and Texas. This initiative aims to create the vital infrastructure backbone needed to scale electric air taxi operations nationwide. Archer founder Adam Goldstein emphasized that electric air taxis require robust charging support for sustainable expansion.

Beta Technologies currently operates a network encompassing 123 active and developing sites featuring their proprietary electric charging systems, with over 60 deployed at airports. These chargers accommodate not only Beta’s own electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL) models like the Alia A250 and Alia CX300, but also Archer’s Midnight and even zero-emission electric ground vehicles such as airport shuttles. The partnership plans to leverage the FAA’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) framework to roll out chargers in participating states, aiding commercial and medical air taxi operations.

Earlier in July, Beta completed the first official eIPP organ transport mission utilizing its electric air taxi services between Maryland and Virginia, showcasing operational viability and regulatory progress. The multistate eIPP effort includes at least 26 states, signaling coast-to-coast potential for the electric aircraft charger network. Macquarie Capital is engaged as a strategic advisor and the funder supporting site acquisition and development for ACES.

The consortium’s charging systems adhere to the Combined Charging Standard (CCS), providing interoperability across various electric aviation and ground vehicles. Although the CCS is being phased out for Tesla’s North American Charging Standard for electric cars, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association endorses CCS as the preferred framework for electric aircraft. This standard aligns with the European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment’s ED-308 guidelines, harmonizing VTOL charging infrastructure requirements internationally.

Other electric aircraft manufacturers, such as Joby Aviation, have developed proprietary charging systems like the Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS); however, Archer and Beta favor an open standard approach with CCS to avoid fragmentation. Beta’s chargers focus on centralized battery pack designs, differing from Joby’s multi-channel coolant-cooled system. The consortium encourages broad industry adoption by integrating more manufacturers, infrastructure providers, and investors.

Archer and Beta’s clients, including Republic Airways, Bristow Group, and Surf Air Mobility, will use the ACES network primarily for cargo and medical flight operations, while Archer expects access for passenger air taxi services during peak periods. Both companies have partnered with major fixed-base operators (FBOs) like Signature Aviation and Atlantic Aviation to install charging units on general aviation aprons, catering to the public and existing airport users.

Site selection for chargers is driven by detailed traffic and operational data assessment, including volume and proximity to power sources. Beta aims to cluster chargers to create interconnected mesh networks increasing utility and reliability. Chargers can typically be installed within six to nine months, making rapid deployment feasible across the prioritized regions.

The eIPP program involvement strongly influences charger location priorities, with projects currently underway or awarded in Pennsylvania, Texas, Florida, Utah, North Carolina, Louisiana, New York, and New Jersey. Archer and Beta plan to reveal further details at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2026, including a discussion featuring senior US Transportation Department officials on advancing electric aviation infrastructure.

By establishing a unified, interoperable charging network grounded in widely accepted standards, Archer and Beta are charting a concrete pathway toward scalable electric air mobility operations. Their efforts solidify the physical infrastructure foundation necessary to transition urban and regional air transport to zero-emission electric propulsion systems across the US.