Archer Aviation Acquires Boeing's Wisk Aero, SkyGrid, and Insitu to Expand Defense and Autonomous Flight Capabilities

Courtney Carlsen, The Motley Fool Wed, September 9, 2026 at 5:25 PM PDT · 5 min read

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Flying taxis, also known as electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, could be coming to a city near you. Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) and Joby Aviation (NYSE: JOBY) are two companies ushering in a new mode of travel that could reshape urban transportation as we know it.

These companies' visions extend far beyond passenger transport. Both Archer and Joby are strategically diversifying their portfolios by expanding into defense and aerospace to capitalize on different growth opportunities.

The eVTOL industry could be a massive opportunity. JPMorgan Chase estimates the eVTOL industry could grow into a $1 trillion market by 2040. Archer and Joby are two top stocks to consider, but one stands out as a better buy right now. Here's what investors need to know.

Archer and Joby Are Making Test Flights Across the U.S.

In June 2025, the White House unveiled Executive Order 14307, titled "Unleashing American Drone Dominance." As part of this, the White House launched the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The eIPP aims to test and safely integrate eVTOL aircraft into the U.S. national airspace by creating real-world testing environments across the country. For Archer and Joby, this program enables them to kick-start regional flight networks and demonstrate operational readiness alongside their formal FAA Type Certification process.

In April 2026, Joby made its New York City debut, flying from downtown Manhattan to John F. Kennedy International Airport. As part of the eIPP, it has been approved to fly across 11 states, including California, Texas, and Florida, and it plans its first eIPP flights in Texas this month. This week-long test campaign will help it test real-world operations with company pilots only.

Archer is also taking flight. In July 2026, the company completed a piloted round trip between Salinas and Monterey, California. The company also has plans for a "No Roads" flight tour as part of the eIPP, which kicked off on Sept. 4.

Archer and Joby Are in a Tight Race to Achieve FAA Certification

On operational readiness, Archer and Joby are neck and neck. Both companies are demonstrating their flights through the eIPP and navigating the later stages of the FAA's Type Certification Process.

This certification approves that the aircraft's design complies with federal airworthiness and safety standards and paves the way for Archer and Joby to begin mass production and commercial passenger operations. Both companies are well along in this process, though Joby currently has a slight lead.

Both Companies Have Growing Defense Businesses

Beyond passenger flights, both Archer and Joby are building strong defense businesses. On Aug. 10, Archer acquired Boeing's Wisk Aero, SkyGrid, and Insitu in an all-stock deal. Wisk expands Archer's autonomous flight capabilities. SkyGrid gives it an air traffic management solution for the future of automated airspace. Finally, Insitu provides uncrewed aircraft systems used for intelligence and reconnaissance operations.

Joby secured the U.S. military's first-ever airworthiness...