Vertical Aerospace (Vertical) [NYSE: EVTL] recently celebrated a significant milestone as its latest VX4 prototype completed its first tethered piloted flight. This achievement marks the beginning of the wheels up phase of testing for the innovative aircraft.
The VX4 underwent a piloted flight while gently tethered to the ground, allowing Vertical to analyze over 20,000 flight and system parameters. The focus was on verifying thrust, handling qualities, and overall system performance during this crucial test.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) granted Vertical a Permit to Fly for the VX4 prototype after a thorough evaluation of the aircraft, its engineering, design, and test data, essentially conducting a comprehensive mini certification program. Vertical is diligently submitting documentation to the CAA for each flight phase, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, engineering specifications, and operational procedures.
Upon receiving permission from the CAA, Vertical plans to advance to the next phase of testing, commencing with further thrustborne flight testing. This phase will involve vertical take-offs and landings, along with low-speed flight maneuvers utilizing propeller-generated lift. Subsequent stages will include wingborne or conventional flight and the critical piloted transition flight, contingent upon approval from the CAA.
In preparation for the inaugural tethered flight, the VX4 underwent extensive ground testing, including powered propulsion testing of its advanced powertrain featuring proprietary battery packs capable of delivering 1.4 MW of peak power. These batteries were developed at Vertical’s state-of-the-art Vertical Energy Centre.
Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment, emphasizing the dedication and expertise that brought the VX4 to this pivotal moment. With ambitions for piloted transition and commercialization on the horizon, the team remains committed to reshaping the future of aviation.
Vertical Aerospace, a global aerospace and technology company, aims to revolutionize electric aviation and transform travel into a safer, cleaner, and quieter experience. With a focus on eVTOL technology, Vertical’s VX4 is a cutting-edge aircraft designed for zero operating emissions. Collaborating with industry leaders like GKN, Honeywell, and Leonardo, Vertical is at the forefront of developing advanced and safe eVTOL solutions.
Boasting 1,500 pre-orders valued at $6 billion from customers worldwide, including Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, and Japan Airlines, Vertical is poised to lead the electric aviation revolution. Founded in 2016 by Stephen Fitzpatrick, Vertical Aerospace is headquartered in Bristol, a prominent hub for the aerospace industry.
By pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability, Vertical Aerospace is paving the way for a new era in aviation, driven by cutting-edge technology and a commitment to excellence.
