Vertical VX4 Completed Phase 2 Testing, Enters Wingborne Flight Testing

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BRISTOL– Vertical Aerospace has successfully completed Phase 2 of its piloted thrustborne testing for the VX4 prototype.

The aircraft demonstrated remarkable stability and performance, surpassing expectations. With this milestone, the company is now preparing for the next stage- piloted wingborne flight, a world first for a full-scale tilt-rotor eVTOL.

This achievement comes as Vertical maintains strong momentum, including securing $90 million in a recent upsized public offering.

The next phase of testing will be crucial in proving the VX4’s operational capabilities in real-world conditions.

VX4 Completed Piloted Flight Testing

Phase 2 of the VX4’s piloted testing focused on evaluating thrustborne flight characteristics. The aircraft completed over 30 piloted test flights, showcasing hover and low speed maneuverability.

Key flight maneuvers included roll, yaw, and spot-turns, providing valuable data on system reliability, lift efficiency, and control responsiveness.

Engineers collected extensive data to assess the VX4’s performance, with results exceeding expectations. The aircraft maintained stability throughout testing, demonstrating strong reliability.

No system failures were recorded during piloted flights, reinforcing confidence in the VX4’s design.

VX4 Wingborne Flight Testing

With thrustborne testing complete, Vertical is now working toward piloted wingborne flight. This phase will be groundbreaking, as it will mark the first time a full-scale tilt-rotor eVTOL transitions from vertical takeoff to conventional wingborne flight.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) must first expand Vertical’s Permit to Fly before testing begins.

Wingborne flight represents a critical step toward full certification. Once approved, the VX4 will take off, fly, and land using lift generated by its wings rather than relying solely on rotor thrust.

This will test its aerodynamic efficiency and operational capabilities in real-world scenarios.

As Vertical collaborates with the CAA on regulatory approvals, it will continue refining the VX4 through system and component testing.

The company is also advancing development of an identical full-scale prototype to accelerate flight testing and demonstration activities.

Following successful wingborne testing, the VX4 will undergo transition testing to validate its ability to switch between vertical and forward flight modes.

This final phase will pave the way for full certification and commercialization, bringing Vertical closer to launching its innovative eVTOL aircraft into service.