Vertical Aerospace plans to revolutionize travel with electric flying taxi by 2028
- Vertical Aerospace is backed by major corporations such as Honeywell, Rolls-Royce, and American Airlines.
- The VX4 electric flying taxi aims for a U.K. launch in 2028, followed by entry into the U.S. market shortly after.
- This development marks a significant advance towards premium air travel and urban air mobility solutions.
Based in the United Kingdom, Vertical Aerospace is focused on bringing its electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, named VX4, to market. The company, which has been active in zero-emissions aviation since 2016, is backed by major companies like Honeywell, Rolls-Royce, and American Airlines. CEO Stuart Simpson, who took over in May 2024, expressed optimism about the aircraft's commercialization and its implications for travel, stating that it represents the first step towards innovative air travel solutions that he describes as 'highways in the sky.' The VX4 is designed for a cruising speed of approximately 150 mph and can cover distances of over 100 miles on a single charge. While initially targeting business-class passengers with a fare estimated at about $2 per seat per kilometer, the final pricing structure will be determined by the airlines that purchase the aircraft. Simpson detailed that the company's approach aims to provide a premium flying experience, similar to existing high-end taxi services. Furthermore, Vertical Aerospace's VX4 must adhere to stringent safety standards set by U.K. and European aviation authorities, following the UK CAA/EASA SC-VTOL enhanced category certification. The VX4 is expected to be operational in the U.K. by 2028. Vertical Aerospace plans to enter the U.S. market within three to six months after its European launch. This move comes amid increasing support for air mobility solutions, with competitors such as Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation also progressing with their electric flying taxi projects, with expected launches occurring in the near future. In addition to the VX4, Vertical Aerospace is exploring hybrid aircraft options designed for longer ranges, potentially tapping into the defense sector. These developments showcase the growing confidence in the viability of electric flying taxis and point toward a future where urban air mobility could play a significant role in transportation systems worldwide.