The transaction encompasses three distinct companies which together account for nearly two million flight hours: Wisk Aero, SkyGrid, and Insitu. The deal is expected to close by the end of 2026 and remains subject to regulatory approvals. Financial details, including the purchase price and the extent of Boeing’s future stake in Archer, have not been disclosed.
As reported by Aerotelegraph, Archer’s core eVTOL business is central to the deal – particularly where Wisk Aero is concerned. Wisk Aero has spent 16 years developing autonomous eVTOLs and has completed over 1,700 test flights, according to its records. While Archer’s own eVTOL, Midnight, will initially operate with a pilot, the acquisition of Wisk lays the technology groundwork for future autonomous operations to the company. SkyGrid, meanwhile, provides software for automated air traffic management, supporting the integration of autonomous and unmanned aerial vehicles into airspace.
Archer and Wisk share a history: In 2021, Wisk sued its competitor for alleged theft of trade secrets (link in German). The dispute was settled in 2023, after which Boeing invested in Archer, and the two companies agreed to collaborate on autonomy technologies. Now, Wisk is fully transitioning under Archer’s umbrella.
