FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hawthorne City Manager
4455 W. 126th Street
Hawthorne, CA 90250
(310) 349-2900
HAWTHORNE, Calif., November 24, 2025 – The City of Hawthorne proudly announces a major step forward in advancing economic development and transportation innovation through a new partnership at the Hawthorne Municipal Airport. The City Council consented to the assignment of a leasehold interest related to the airport’s Master Ground Lease and authorized the city manager to complete the related agreements enabling Archer Aviation to assume a 75% interest in the airport’s master lease on November 14.
This investment marks a significant milestone for Hawthorne, reinforcing the City’s status as a center for aerospace, technology and mobility. The partnership will bring infrastructure improvements, new job opportunities, and global visibility to the community.
“The Hawthorne Municipal Airport has long been a cornerstone of our city’s identity,” said Mayor Vargas. “This new partnership strengthens that legacy while positioning us for a future defined by innovation, sustainability and opportunity. It’s about ensuring that the benefits of new technology directly uplift the people and businesses of Hawthorne.”
Located just three miles from SoFi Stadium, Kia Forum and the soon-opening Intuit Dome, the Hawthorne Municipal Airport is ideally positioned to serve as a hub for advanced mobility during major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The City of Hawthorne stands to gain on several fronts through this partnership:
- Significant infrastructure investment at the airport;
- New economic activity from aviation, hospitality, and related industries;
- High-quality job creation;
- Regional branding advantages through the World Cup and LA28.
The City is committed to ongoing collaboration with the FAA to ensure that the concerns of nearby residents are appropriately addressed. Additionally, the City’s Community Network Committee (CNC), which meets quarterly, will continue serving as a venue for aviation-related dialogue and community feedback. Current airport operations will continue without interruption.
By welcoming Archer Aviation to our community, we are unlocking new economic potential while ensuring that the city remains at the forefront of next-generation transportation,” said Vontray Norris, city manager of Hawthorne. “This partnership creates opportunity, growth and value that extends beyond air mobility.”
Archer Aviation plans to develop electric air taxi infrastructure at the airport and has been selected as the official Air Taxi Provider of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Team USA. The company’s proximity to major venues and partnerships with the Los Angeles Rams and Hollywood Park likely position Hawthorne as an instrumental player in the global events arena.
Please see the official statement here.
