Aircraft Completes First Untethered, Piloted Thrustborne Trial
Vertical Aerospace has kicked off the second testing phase for its VX4 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) prototype. This follows a recent expansion from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to Vertical’s Permit to Fly. Phase 2 will include untethered, piloted thrustborne testing. The VX4 has already completed its first Phase 2 trial, with Vertical reporting that it “surpassed expectations in hover performance, control, and stability.” It will now attempt low-speed maneuvers at the Vertical Flight Test Centre at Cotswolds Airport in the UK.