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Vertical Aerospace has unveiled the first full-scale example of the production-conforming design for a six-passenger eVTOL aircraft. On Wednesday, the UK company is exhibiting a new model called Valo at a public event in London’s Canary Wharf business district.
The Valo model succeeds the VX4 prototype that Vertical has been flight testing since 2022. According to the company, the revised design incorporates lessons learned from the piloted flight test program as well as feedback from airline customers and other prospective operators.
When it enters service after achieving EASA and UK type certification, which the company is targeting for 2028, the Valo is expected to have a range of up to 87 nm and speeds of just over 130 knots. Vertical said the initial premium version of the cabin will have four seats with room for two more to be added for some applications, and space next to the pilot for “an observer.” Each passenger will be able to bring one checked bag and a smaller bag onboard.
According to Bristol-based Vertical, the early commercial routes are likely to include shuttle services connecting airports with city centers. The company said that Valo is also suitable for emergency medical flights, cargo operations, and potential defense missions for which it might develop hybrid-electric and autonomous versions of the aircraft.
Design Changes
The new design features what Vertical claims is a more aerodynamic airframe with an under-floor battery system, a redesigned wing, and new propeller architecture. Program partners include Aciturri for aerostructures and Honeywell for avionics and flight control systems. On Monday, Syensqo agreed to supply lightweight composite materials for the airframe.
“With the launch of Valo, Vertical moves from prototype developer to aerospace manufacturer,” said Vertical CEO Stuart Simpson. “Valo is the aircraft that turns electric flight into a commercial reality—clean, quiet, fast, and engineered for everyday service. It marks a new dawn in transport, one that will connect people in minutes, not hours.”
According to Vertical, it is set to become the manufacturer of the first commercial aircraft built in the UK for 30 years since the former British Aerospace stopped production of the Hawker business jet. A report published last week by Frontier Economics said that Vertical is expected to create more than 2,000 skilled jobs and contribute around £3 billion ($4 billion) to the economy each year.
