LA’s New Air Taxi Hub: Archer Acquires Hawthorne Airport For Future Mobility

Published on December 10, 2025

Archer Aviation has made a significant move in the urban air mobility sector by completing the first phase of its acquisition of Hawthorne Airport, strategically located just three miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This acquisition marks a milestone in Archer’s vision to develop a cutting-edge air taxi network in Los Angeles, a city poised to become a hub for next-generation aviation technologies.

The acquisition gives Archer control over the airport’s master lease and subleases, solidifying its role in transforming air travel in the region. Hawthorne Airport, with its close proximity to key attractions such as SoFi Stadium, The Forum, Intuit Dome, and Downtown Los Angeles, is set to become a vital link for both the tourism industry and urban air mobility.

Tourism Impact: Hawthorne Airport’s Role in LA’s Future Travel

Hawthorne Airport is already a profitable asset, and Archer believes the facility holds significant untapped potential, especially with the expansion of urban air mobility. Its strategic location provides Archer with a prime opportunity to launch its air taxi network, which is expected to revolutionise how visitors travel around Los Angeles.

Los Angeles, a major tourism destination, will benefit from the introduction of air taxis, reducing travel time for both tourists and locals. With LA being a city known for its sprawling urban layout and notorious traffic congestion, air taxis can offer a faster, more efficient way for visitors to reach popular tourist destinations and events. The airport’s location also makes it the closest airport to some of the city’s most iconic venues, such as SoFi Stadium, which hosts major sporting events, and the upcoming LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games. These events will draw thousands of visitors to the city, and the introduction of air taxis will help alleviate the burden on traditional transportation infrastructure.

Hawthorne Airport: An Iconic Piece of LA’s Aviation History

Hawthorne Airport, which dates back to the 1920s, holds a significant place in Southern California’s aviation history. Known as Jack Northrop Field, the airport has long been a landmark for the region’s aerospace legacy. With the airport’s acquisition, Archer not only gains control of a valuable piece of real estate but also taps into a rich history of innovation and aviation excellence.

In addition to serving as the operational base for Archer’s air taxi network, the airport is set to become a testbed for next-generation aviation technologies. These include AI-powered air traffic and ground operations management, which will enhance the airport’s efficiency and provide a modern experience for both passengers and aviation professionals. The airport’s historic facilities, including terminal, office, and hangar spaces, will be transformed into a high-tech hub for urban air mobility, further solidifying Los Angeles as a global leader in transportation innovation.

A Key Player in the LA28 Olympics and Paralympics

Looking ahead, Archer’s plans for Hawthorne Airport include its involvement in the LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games. With thousands of visitors expected to flock to Los Angeles for the games, the air taxi network will provide a crucial transportation solution for attendees. By offering a new mode of travel, Archer’s air taxis will help alleviate congestion and provide visitors with a fast, efficient way to navigate between key venues, hotels, and tourist attractions.

The introduction of air taxis to LA’s transport network is poised to significantly improve the experience for tourists, providing a unique, cutting-edge solution to the city’s transportation challenges. As Los Angeles prepares for the LA28 Games, Archer Aviation’s vision for urban air mobility is likely to become a key feature of the city’s infrastructure.

The Future of Urban Air Mobility and Tourism in LA

Archer’s acquisition of Hawthorne Airport is not just about gaining control of an airport – it’s about revolutionising the way people travel in Los Angeles. As the city moves closer to the future of urban air mobility, Archer’s plans for the airport will help make Los Angeles a major player in the emerging air taxi market.

The company’s focus on AI-powered technologies will also bring an additional layer of efficiency and convenience to the airport’s operations. This forward-thinking approach positions Archer as a leader in shaping the future of air travel, particularly in urban settings.

Archer plans to fully acquire the airport’s Fixed Base Operator (FBO) and passenger terminal in the next phase of the transaction, solidifying its control over the entire airport. With this final acquisition, the company will have full control of Hawthorne Airport’s day-to-day operations, further enhancing its ability to deliver an innovative, seamless experience for tourists and aviation professionals alike.

As urban air mobility becomes more prevalent, Los Angeles is on the brink of a transportation revolution. Archer’s strategic acquisition of Hawthorne Airport positions the city to lead the way in the air taxi industry, providing a fast, convenient, and sustainable transportation option for residents and visitors alike.