Vertical Completes Third Full-Scale Prototype & Doubles Test Capacity

The final prototype aircraft will transition to piloted flight testing in early 2026 to accelerate the path toward commercialization

Story and Image Credit: Joe Macey
aaminternational.com

Vertical Aerospace has completed its third and final full-scale prototype aircraft, which is scheduled to begin piloted flight testing in January 2026.

The new aircraft is an exact replica of the company’s current full-scale prototype. That existing aircraft is currently undergoing transition flight testing at the UK Flight Test Centre, with its most recent flight conducted on 19 December and additional testing scheduled for the final week of the year. By introducing this second identical aircraft, the company will effectively double its flight test capacity and provide additional resources for public demonstrations throughout 2026.

The prototype integrates advanced systems from several aerospace partners, including Honeywell, Molicel, and Syensqo. While the aircraft will begin its flight campaign in an all-electric configuration, it is scheduled to be retrofitted for hybrid-electric testing later in 2026.

Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, said, “As we look ahead to 2026, the addition of our final prototype marks an important step in closing out our prototype flight test program and maintaining momentum towards commercialization. Our test pilots are eager to get this aircraft into the air.”

These developments follow the recent unveiling of Valo, the company’s next-generation certification aircraft. Vertical intends to build seven Valo aircraft in the UK to support the final certification program with the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. Valo is currently scheduled to enter commercial service following its expected certification in 2028.

As the company continues to engage with stakeholders and customers, it will launch a US tour with the Valo aircraft in 2026. The tour is set to begin in New York City in January. Vertical Aerospace is a global technology company focused on electric aviation and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

… notes from SP

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Electric-Hybrid E Automotive, E Aviation, E Marine Technology & Future Innovative Electric-Hybrid VTOL Aerospace Tech News Around The World! EVHNews.com is a dedicated global digital Technology platform for EVVTOL a Global EV / Hybrid Automotive, E-Aviation, E-VTOL, E-Marine Future Technology Industry Show & Expo Event Organization where the world biggest EV & E-VTOL brands invest in the future of transportation. EV H News is committed to the Electric Vehicles & EV-Hybrid Automotive, E-Aviation E-VTOL-UAV E-Marine, industry including e-mobility e-semi & e-truck. This digital platform will include reviews and resources from global industry leaders, many with a focus on clean blue technology and alternative fuels where applicable. EVH news platform is for all to have access to the tools and information available for the future for breakthrough e-technology of the e-automotive, e-aviation, e-marine, e-motorcycle e-semi & e-truck e-motorsport industries. About EVVTOL • EVVTOL a new corporation branding itself as the most Influential global future technology show / expo event organization by strategically positioning itself to successfully facilitate EV and VTOL transportation industry clients with their needs! • EVVTOL’s goal is to showcase the EV & VTOL industry and introduce the major EV & VTOL vehicles and component manufactures in the e-tech world by unveiling and displaying cutting-edge EV & E-VTOL technology. • EVVTOL mission is to introduce multiple technology shows & expos including influential high-level EV business summits based on the dual themes of business engagement with key manufacturers working in the EV & E mobility Industry, energy vehicle information technology and charging infrastructure Industry. These events are excellent opportunities to learn about and discuss the latest future transportation technology advancements in EV& VTOL industry, and the battery energy challenges that still remain. (evvtol.org) 877-4EV-VTOL (877-438-8865)

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