Vertical Aerospace chief test pilot Justin Paines sits in the cockpit of the company’s VX4 air taxi during propeller testing. [Courtesy: Vertical Aerospace]
Key Takeaways:
U.K.-based Vertical Aerospace has resumed testing its VX4 eVTOL air taxi, conducting ground tests on a new, more advanced full-scale prototype after an initial model was damaged in a crash last year due to a pylon failure.
The latest prototype features enhanced power, an improved power-to-weight ratio, new propellers, proprietary battery technology, and significantly increased integration of components from external suppliers.
Vertical Aerospace has completed initial ground testing and is progressing towards securing a flight permit from the U.K.'s Civil Aviation Authority, with a target to achieve type certification by the end of 2026.
The company continues to receive substantial support, including $47 million in U.K. government grants and a $50 million commitment from its founder, to fund the testing and certification process.
U.K.-based electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxi manufacturer Vertical Aerospace is back to testing aircraft.
The manufacturer has begun ground testing a new, more advanced full-scale prototype of its flagship VX4 air taxi after an initial prototype was damaged during an uncrewed flight test last year.
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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.
