Vertical Aerospace VX4 eVTOL prototype Completes Phase 3 of Wingborne Flight testing, Gets Ready for Phase 4 Transition Flight

Vertical Aerospace [NYSE: EVTL], has just completed its Phase 3 of flight testing the VX4 prototype eVTOL aircraft. The next phase is expected to be completed by the end of this year (2025). These flights were piloted by the experienced by pilots Paul Stone, and Chief Test Pilot Simon Davies.

“Completing wingborne flight is a historic milestone for Vertical and the VX4. Each phase strengthens confidence among regulators, partners, and investors that our aircraft will meet the highest standards of safety and performance. Now we enter the most exciting stage: transition testing, demonstrating the mode the VX4 will use in passenger service.” – Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace

“Paul Stone and I have had the privilege of flying this machine through it’s wingborne test phase. It’s been incredibly rewarding, with the aircraft performing just like the simulator during our first flights in open air space. With the high-quality data we’ve gathered and the ability to test at both high and low speeds, we are in the best possible place to explore transition with our proven tools and flight test team.” – Simon Davies, Chief Test Pilot

Flight Phase Progress

Phase 1: > Tethered flight: A stabilized hover flown by the VX4 prototype, while simultaneously being loosely tethered to the ground. Mission Completed: September 12th, 2024. ✅

Phase 2: > Thrustborne flight : A vertical take-off and landing of the VX4 prototype, using the lift generated by its propellers to perform low speed flight manoeuvres. Mission Completed: February 4th, 2025. ✅

Phase 3: > Wingborne flight: A conventional take-off, wingborne flight and landing (CTOL) of the VX4 prototype. Mission Completed: September 5th, 2025. ✅

Phase 4: > Transition flight: The VX4 prototype will engage in a spectacular transition between vertical/thrustborne and horizontal/wingborne flight, and vice versa. Status: Mission is projected to be accomplished by the end of 2025! ⏱️🗓️

New Board Member

Vertical Aerospace’s milestone achievement comes after the recent announcement that Patrick Kay has joined Vertical Aerospace’s Board.

“I am delighted to join Vertical Aerospace’s Board at such an exciting time for electric aviation. Having worked closely with industry and regulators worldwide on developing the standards for this new generation of aircraft, I believe Vertical is uniquely positioned to lead the sector through certification and into safe, sustainable commercial operations. I look forward to supporting the team as they bring the VX4 to market.” – Patrick Ky, Board Director

“Patrick Ky is one of the most respected voices in aviation regulation and safety worldwide. His unparalleled expertise and leadership at EASA will be invaluable as Vertical advances its certifiable aircraft programme, creating the most exportable aircraft on the market. His appointment reinforces our commitment to achieving the highest regulatory and safety standards while delivering on the promise of electric aviation.” – Domhnal Slattery, Chairman at Vertical Aerospace

What’s Next?

It won’t be long before we see the first Vertical Aerospace VX4 flying and transitioning from vertical and horizontal/wingborne flight and vice versa. When that day comes, eVTOL buzz will ready to cover this groundbreaking milestone, and provide the deep dive analysis regarding everything surrounding that major accomplishment from Vertical Aerospace! ✈️

More Info:

Vertical Aerospace’s official press release: click here

Vertical Aerospace’s official press release regarding Mr. Patrick Ky’s appointment: click here

Vertical Aerospace VX4 eVTOL prototype makes historic first piloted eVTOL wingborne flight in Europe: click here

Vertical Aerospace Delivers a Strong Financial Plan and Key Achievements in 2025 🇬🇧: click here