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Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 Air Taxi Completes First Cross-Country Wingborne Flight

The milestone clears a crucial regulatory hurdle under the UK Civil Aviation Authority ahead of its 2028 commercial launch.

The aircraft has a range of 100 miles
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Overview

  • The prototype took off vertically, transitioned to wingborne cruise over the Cotswolds, and landed like a conventional aircraft at a UK airfield after CAA sign-off.
  • It marks the first time a flying taxi has flown in open European airspace, advancing the VX4’s certification process.
  • Designed to carry one pilot and four passengers up to 100 miles at speeds of 150 mph, the VX4 uses tilting propellers for its dual hover-and-cruise capability.
  • Vertical Aerospace secured UK government funding and private investment despite a £70 million rescue from Mudrick Capital earlier this year.
  • The company aims to begin commercial eVTOL passenger services in 2028, supporting the government’s vision for flying taxis.