INDUSTRY NEWS: Vertical Aerospace unveil new aircraft in the capital

Hundreds of people gathered in London the launch of Vertical Aerospace’s new Valo aircraft.  

Hosted at the Pelligon in Canary Wharf by Claudia Winkleman, the sustainable aviation company outline their strategy for their new prototype, which is a further advancement to their VX4 airframe.  

Capable of speeds up to 150mph for 100miles with zero emissions, the latest model come following insights from the test programme, plus thoughts from airline and operator customers – with the aim to be fully certified by 2028.  

Chief Executive Officer at Vertical Aerospace, Stuart Simpson said: “With the launch of Valo, Vertical moves from prototype developer to aerospace manufacturer. 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.” 

Earlier this year Vertical Aerospace celebrated a landmark moment with their VX4 as it completed its first airport to airport flight when the aircraft flew from Cotswold Airport to RAF Fairford to take part in this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo.  

It was the first time the show, which welcomed over 178,000 people, featured an eVTOL as it drew a huge amount of attention on the static display.  

Head of Air Operations at Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, Peter Reoch said: “We were delighted to be joined by Vertical Aerospace at this year’s event, especially as we kept their involvement under wraps to surprise our visitors. 

“This year saw two standout moments with regards to sustainable aviation, the first being Vertical Aerospace’s arrival of the VX4 electric aircraft and the second being the Royal Air Force Red Arrows completing their first public display on sustainable aviation fuel. 

“It is an exciting time to be involved in aviation and we look forward to seeing more development from organisations such as Vertical Aerospace.”