Archer (ACHR) Stock Surges 18% on Tesla Speculation, FAA Certification Eyed Next

Archer Aviation's stock skyrocketed 18% Monday after Tesla's cryptic social media post sparked speculation about a potential aviation venture. The EV giant teased a "significant announcement" with a video featuring a spinning rotor, igniting trader interest in electric-aircraft plays.

Investor Steven Porrello identifies FAA type certification for Archer's Midnight aircraft as the next potential catalyst. "The Midnight receiving its type certification WOULD be the event that could send Archer stock soaring," Porrello noted. Such approval would clear the final regulatory hurdle for commercial passenger operations.

Archer already holds Part 141 certification for pilot training and Part 135 for operations commencement. The company participates in a U.S. eVTOL pilot program that could lead to trial operations by 2026, with government support potentially accelerating regulatory progress.