UK-based
Vertical Aerospace, a global aerospace and technology company that is pioneering electric aviation, has commenced ‘Phase 4 — Transition’ flight testing after receiving a Permit to Fly from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the final stage of its VX4 prototype flight-test programme. This regulatory approval enables Vertical’s flight-test team to begin testing the VX4 prototype’s defining transition manoeuvre —seamlessly shifting between hover and wingborne flight.
Phase 4 represents the final stage of the VX4 prototype flight test programme and follows
successful completion of flight test Phases 1-3, earlier this year. These confirmed the VX4’s exceptional flying qualities, and included flying in open air space for the first time.
To prepare for piloted transition flight, Vertical’s engineering and test teams recently completed extensive simulation, ground, and flight testing in collaboration with the UK CAA, verifying all 200 Minimum Safe Aircraft requirements.
In support of our Permit to Fly, more than 20,000 pages of safety and technical information were updated and submitted to the CAA. The CAA is working closely with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for their concurrent validation and certification of the VX4 to the highest safety standards required for commercial use.
Stuart Simpson, Vertical Aerospace CEO, said: “Receiving our Permit to Fly and starting Phase 4 marks a defining moment for Vertical Aerospace. Our team has spent months verifying every core system under close regulatory oversight, reflecting our unique and robust approach to certification. This step is a critical demonstration of the VX4’s unique tiltrotor capability and real-world capability and is a major technical and certification unlock.”