Vertical Aerospace conducts first successful flight of its electric aircraft
Vertical Aerospace the Bristol-based global aerospace and technology company pioneering zero-emissions aviation, has flown its first successful electric flight with with a full-scale electric aircraft.
In an announcement on social media today (Wednesday) the company confirmed it had reached its target speed of 40kts (just over 40 mph, or 70 kmph) in a series of "rigorous, remotely-piloted ‘thrustborne’ test flights" at Cotswold Airport, Kemble.
The only full-scale eVTOL (electric vertical take off and landing) aircraft in the country, the VX4 lifted, hovered, flew and landed, powered solely by the thrust of the cutting-edge battery-powered propulsion system.
"This is a huge milestone for Vertical, our team and partners, proving that electric flight is within reach," said the firm.
Vertical’s Chief Test Pilot, Justin Paines, commented: “The aircraft was remarkably easy to fly.
"It was rock-solid in stability and provided precise control even in demanding flight conditions such as hovering close to the ground.
"The aircraft leapt into a stable hover at lower RPM than expected, taking advantage of the ground effect cushion. Battery temperatures and state-of-charge remained well within predictions for the duration of flights.”
Vertical, which was founded by Ovo Energy founder Stephen FitzPatrick, has focused on building the most experienced and senior team in the eVTOL industry, who have previously certified and supported over 30 different civil and military aircraft and propulsion systems.
Vertical has forged strong relationships with industry-leading players to develop the various components of its aircraft and build a sophisticated eVTOL ecosystem, creating efficiencies across the manufacturing processes, aircraft operations and maintenance.
