Vertical Aerospace has reached a significant milestone in its journey toward commercial electric flight. The company’s VX4 eVTOL aircraft successfully completed the first phase of its piloted flight test program at the Vertical Flight Test Centre.
The VX4 prototype undertook 20 piloted test sorties in this phase, covering 70 test points. These included tethered flight simulations and ground tests designed to verify the aircraft’s safety under various operational conditions.
During the tests, engineers simulated the failure of an Electric Propulsion Unit (EPU), demonstrating the VX4’s ability to handle in-flight challenges safely.
Vertical collected over 35,000 flight and system parameters to ensure the aircraft’s systems function correctly. The company also conducted advanced low- and high-speed taxi tests, validating ground handling and aerodynamic characteristics.
“We continue to prove the safety and performance of our design and technology, which we believe to be market leading,” Vertical Aerospace CEO Stuart Simpson stated.
The second full-scale VX4 prototype was unveiled on July 18, 2024, featuring new carbon fiber composite propellers and proprietary battery packs.
Vertical prepares for Phase 2, which will involve thrustborne flight tests. The company is also developing a new prototype to accelerate the VX4’s testing and demonstration program.
Founded in 2016, Vertical Aerospace is advancing electric aviation with its piloted, zero-emissions VX4. The company claims to have amassed 1,500 pre-orders, including from major airlines such as Virgin Atlantic and American Airlines.