Boeing Sells Stake to Archer as Air Taxi Maker Expands Reach

Air taxi maker Archer Aviation has entered into an agreement to acquire Boeing's electric aircraft unit, Wisk Aero, along with two related subsidiaries. In exchange, Boeing will receive a nearly 20% stake in the combined company.

The acquisition includes Insitu, a drone manufacturer, and SkyGrid, an airspace-services provider. Archer shares rose 21% in premarket trading following the announcement.

The deal gives Archer access to Boeing's autonomous-flight technology, which could strengthen its position in defense and commercial logistics markets as well as passenger aviation.

Archer is developing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for commercial service, initially targeting short trips in urban areas and between airports and city centers. The company has yet to demonstrate that air taxis can be certified, manufactured at scale and operated at prices that draw routine customers.