Vertical Aerospace Reaches Critical Milestone in Electric Aircraft Transition Testing

Vertical Aerospace has demonstrated substantial advancement in its piloted transition flight programme, marking a significant turn in the development of its Valo eVTOL aircraft. The company’s full-scale prototype has conducted ten successful flights following the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s issuance of its Permit to Fly on 13 November 2025, with the regulator subsequently extending additional operational privileges to the manufacturer.

Flight Testing Delivers Key Technical Achievements

The expanded test envelope encompasses acceleration and deceleration across diverse speed and tilt configurations, representing the majority of the transition phase. Among the noteworthy accomplishments in recent flights are the first-time in-flight deployment and retrieval of rear propellers, propeller spin-up capabilities during wing-borne operation, and prop-hold functionality validation. These technical validations constitute essential steps in confirming the aircraft’s performance characteristics throughout the critical transition regime.

The testing programme maintains a structured approach, with full piloted transition anticipated during early 2026. Approximately 10% of the tilt transition envelope remains to be explored, influenced by limited flight-test availability and prevailing atmospheric conditions. Each flight session generates crucial performance data that refines the flight-control systems and EPU software integration.

Regulatory Framework Supports Development Path

The UK Civil Aviation Authority’s decision to grant Vertical additional regulatory authorities represents a significant endorsement of the company’s engineering methodology and testing discipline. Under this expanded framework, Vertical can now approve specific Flight Conditions and issue its own Permits to Fly within defined operational parameters, streamlining the development timeline while maintaining rigorous oversight.

Market Positioning and Commercialization Timeline

Vertical maintains approximately 1,500 pre-orders for the Valo aircraft across four continents, including commitments from major operators such as American Airlines, Avolon, Bristow, GOL, and Japan Airlines. The company is simultaneously advancing a hybrid-electric variant designed to extend operational range and provide mission flexibility for diverse advanced air mobility applications.

The Bristol-based manufacturer leverages strategic partnerships with established aerospace suppliers including Honeywell, Syensqo, and Aciturri, complemented by proprietary battery and propeller technologies. The leadership team comprises experienced professionals from premier aerospace and automotive organizations including Rolls-Royce, Airbus, General Motors, and Leonardo, collectively responsible for the certification and operational support of over 30 civil and military aircraft platforms and propulsion systems.

This progression reinforces Vertical’s engineering approach toward the certification and eventual commercialization of what the company positions as the world’s most technologically advanced and safety-optimized eVTOL aircraft.