Photo: Vertical AerospaceVertical Aerospace, the British aerospace and technology firm at the forefront of electric aviation, has welcomed a major funding boost from the UK Department for Transport aimed at accelerating the development of zero-emission aircraft and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) technologies.
The funding, part of the Government’s Future Flight programme delivered by Innovate UK, supports several pioneering initiatives including the “OxCam AAM Corridor” demonstrator. This collaborative project brings together leading organisations such as Skyports, Bristow Helicopters, NATS, Vertical Aerospace, and Oxfordshire County Council.
Its goal is to transition Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) from experimental trials to commercially viable regional operations across the UK. The programme will culminate in test flights of Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 aircraft.
Simon Masters, deputy challenge director for Future Flight at Innovate UK, said the initiative reflects the strength and diversity of the UK’s aviation sector. He added: “Innovate UK is proud to continue supporting the UK’s future flight ecosystem, accelerating the route to commercial operations and delivering real-world impact.”
Impactful growth“These ambitious new projects highlight the strength of the sector and its diverse applications, from reducing emissions, advancing healthcare delivery and protecting our environment. By focusing on regional adoption, we aim to drive faster, more impactful growth and societal benefits for communities across the UK.”
The UK Government has committed £2.3 billion over the next decade to the Aerospace Technology Institute programme, which is focused on helping the sector develop cleaner, more efficient electric aircraft.
Michael Cervenka, chief commercial and strategy officer at Vertical Aerospace, emphasised the UK’s unique position in leading the next generation of sustainable aviation. “The UK is perfectly positioned to lead the next generation of sustainable aviation. By uniting world-class expertise in aircraft design, infrastructure, regulation and operations, this project shows how we can turn ambition into reality. Together, we are laying the groundwork for an entirely new mode of travel that will transform regional connectivity, support our economy and put Britain at the forefront of electric flight.”
Vertical’s VX4 aircraft, a fully electric VTOL vehicle, is central to the company’s vision of reshaping short-haul air travel with zero emissions and minimal noise. The latest funding announcement marks a significant step forward in realising that vision and establishing the UK as a global leader in advanced aviation technologies.