Vertical Aerospace’s air taxi prototype’s four front propellers tilt forward as it switches from hover to wingborne forward flight. [Credit: Vertical Aerospace]
Key Takeaways:
U.K.-based Vertical Aerospace became the first European company to achieve a full transition flight with a full-scale, prototype eVTOL, a crucial milestone for certification.
This achievement positions Vertical Aerospace as a key contender in the global electric air taxi market, competing directly with leading American developers.
The piloted transition flight was conducted under the direct oversight of the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority, with Vertical targeting concurrent CAA and EASA certification by 2028 for its Valo air taxi.
Leading American electric air taxi developers Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, Beta Technologies, and Wisk Aero are primed to contend with at least one European competitor.
U.K.-based Vertical Aerospace on Thursday revealed that it is the first European company to complete a full transition flight with a full-scale, prototype eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) model.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
