Aircraft is Ready to Begin Transition Flight Tests and Will Be Unveiled in December

Vertical Aerospace is releasing a ‘first look’ at its certification aircraft ahead of a full public unveiling on December 10, 2025. The company says the VX4, its flagship electric air taxi, is entering the piloted transition flight phase, where it will hopefully prove its fixed-wing capabilities.

The VX4’s design is what Vertical claims to be the largest cabin in its class, offering a four- or six-seat layout and an observer position next to the pilot. There’s also a divider between the cockpit and passenger area… a small but meaningful effort for a real commercial cabin environment. Payload is listed at 1,200 pounds, with space for six checked bags and six carry-ons.

The company’s test program has reportedly met all 200 of the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s minimum safety standards, allowing transition flights before year’s end. If achieved, the VX4 would join the ranks as one of the first piloted transition-capable aircraft under European regulatory oversight. Vertical says certification is still on track for 2028.

“Over 2025, Vertical has shown that when we set targets, we deliver,” said Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace. “Whilst maintaining our industry-leading capital efficiency, we are not only demonstrating all piloted flight phases, but we are the only eVTOL OEM that has done so under stringent regulatory scrutiny – as mandated by the UK/European Permit to Fly regime.”

Vertical’s Q3 update also outlined a push toward profitability, projecting production of 175 aircraft by 2030. Financially, Vertical expects to burn through roughly $235 million over the next 12 months, primarily to fund prototype testing and certification development. As of the third quarter, it had $117 million in cash on hand, which Vertical says is enough to fund operations through mid-2026.

“Vertical’s new aircraft design is a clear statement of intent - setting new benchmarks for scale, safety, and passenger experience,” added Domhnal Slattery, Chair of Vertical’s Board. “As we prepare for our global reveal in December, Vertical stands out as the company that will bring certified, commercially viable eVTOL flight to market with the most capable platform in the industry.”

FMI: www.vertical-aerospace.com