On June 12th 2025, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Vertical Aerospace (NYSE: EVTL) and Bristow Group (NYSE: VTOL) was signed which will lower the barriers to entry for helicopter operators to enter the eVTOL market and provide services with this new eVTOL technology, backed by the 75 years of helicopter experience of Bristow Group, and the eVTOL OEM expertise of Vertical Aerospace.
- Major Pre-Order Commitment: Bristow has placed a firm pre-order for up to 50 VX4 aircraft, with an option to acquire an additional 50, marking a significant step in the commercialization of eVTOL technology.
- Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Global eVTOL Adoption: Vertical Aerospace and Bristow Group have announced a strategic partnership aimed at fast-tracking the deployment of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft worldwide. The collaboration leverages Vertical’s category-leading VX4 aircraft and Bristow’s proven expertise in vertical lift operations and aviation safety.
- Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Global eVTOL Adoption: Vertical Aerospace and Bristow Group have announced a strategic partnership aimed at fast-tracking the deployment of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft worldwide. The collaboration leverages Vertical’s category-leading VX4 aircraft and Bristow’s proven expertise in vertical lift operations and aviation safety.
- Turnkey “Ready-to-Fly” Model: The partnership introduces a comprehensive “ready-to-fly” solution, offering Vertical’s customers access to aircraft, certified pilots, maintenance services, and insurance. This model significantly reduces barriers to entry and simplifies fleet adoption for new and existing operators.
- Joint Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Exploration: Vertical and Bristow are exploring joint development of global MRO services to support VX4 operations. This includes advanced capabilities such as battery swapping, field maintenance solutions, and scalable infrastructure to ensure operational readiness and uptime.
Adoption, scalability, providing service, generating revenue
The biggest news regarding this latest collaboration between Vertical Aerospace and Bristow Group concerns the reduced barrier to entry for operators that want to get into the future of aviation (AAM) and have eVTOLs within their fleet. By combining an eVTOL OEM leader and a VTOL services leader, there will be a great degree of assurance among operators that they can rely on both of these companies to truly deliver on their promise of a Turnkey “Ready-to-Fly” Model of business. Vertical cites the already $1 trillion urban air mobility (UAM) market as motivation to enter new segments of this rapidly growing market.
“We are excited about expanding our relationship with Vertical and helping move the future of advanced air mobility forward.” …….“Bristow has over 75 years of providing critical safety, operational, certification, and logistics expertise, and this agreement outlines a framework to help scale these new aircraft globally, offering customers a seamless path from concept to revenue.” – Chris Bradshaw, Bristow President and CEO
“This strategic partnership is about execution and mirrors what already successfully works in aviation today.
It will lower barriers to market entry and accelerate the adoption of eVTOL services worldwide. Together, we’re making it easy for customers to adopt electric flight, allowing them to focus on what they are best at – customer service, loyalty and sales.” – Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace
“We see multiple avenues for Bristow to participate in the Advanced Mobility Value chain, one of those will be servicing our existing customers, large energy customers in a broader way, both their personnel as well as their cargo logistics needs”. – Chris Bradshaw, Bristow CEO and President
Bristow’s plan within AAM to maintain its leadership position as a VTOL industry leader
Vertical Aerospace’s eVTOLs such as its VX4, and future models are a core part of Bristow’s plan to stay ahead and embrace the emerging AAM tech and new realities of aviation. Furthermore, with Bristow’s long legacy of vertical take off and landing experience, there is no better company for Vertical to align itself with.
“Advanced Air Mobility is clearly going to be the next evolution within aviation, we are working closely with the manufactures and those that will be operating the aircraft in the future.” – Matt Rhodes, Director Oil and Gas Operations UK, Bristow Group
“As we look into the future, there are new generations of propulsion technology for aircraft, either all electric, hybrid, eventually maybe even hydrogen that will be used to revolutionize air mobility . Bristow is prepared to do that leveraging our global footprint and 70 plus years of aviation experience, and start serving customers in an entirely new way.” – Chris Bradshaw, Bristow CEO and President
Vertical Aerospace’s chance to lead in eVTOL: “Flightpath 2030”
“This is a transformational moment for Vertical as we advance from prototype to production. Since I
became CEO, I’ve been clear that I want Vertical to lead — not just compete in — the eVTOL sector. The strategy and goals we are unveiling today provide a new level of detail on how exactly we intend to get
there – the best team, delivering the safest and most versatile aircraft, with the most compelling business model in the industry.” – Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace (November 12, 2024)
Almost a year ago, Vertical Aerospace announced its plans to lead the eVTOL sector with their “Flightpath 2030” blueprint. This ambitious goal was not mere empty enthusiasm. It was backed by sound fundamentals in both engineering and business, as well as Vertical’s impressive accomplishment of being the first to make a wingborne flight of an eVTOL in European airspace. What is greatly appreciated is that Vertical Aerospace is not shy of the UK’s aviation heritage, ecosystem, and highly talented pool of aviation experts, as demonstrated by Vertical’s Chief Engineer, David King:
“The eVTOL sector isn’t just another iteration of existing tech; we’re defining an entirely new category of aircraft. Innovating in this space demands a radical shift in how we develop aerospace solutions. In the UK, with its unmatched aviation heritage, world-class talent, and a thriving ecosystem, we’re driving that change. Today’s plan sets out exactly how we will make this new dawn of travel a reality.” – David King, Chief Engineer at Vertical Aerospace (November 12, 2024)
Vertical Aerospace has laid out a bold vision for the remainder of the decade, outlining clear targets under its “Flightpath 2030” strategy. With its innovative electric aircraft, the VX4, at the center of its plans, the company is setting its sights on scaling production, achieving certification milestones, and establishing long-term financial sustainability.
Scaling Production and Deliveries
By the end of the decade, Vertical aims to deliver at least 150 VX4 aircraft to its customers, marking a major step toward high-quality, large-scale production. The company is currently collaborating with industry leaders such as GKN Aerospace, Hanwha, Honeywell, Leonardo, Molicel, and Syensqo, while also advancing its proprietary powertrain and propeller technology.
Looking ahead to Q4 2030, Vertical is targeting an annual production rate of over 200 units, with a mid-term ambition of exceeding 700 units per year. This ramp-up is critical to meeting demand from a robust pre-order book. To lead this scale-up, Vertical has appointed Ross Crawford, whose background includes early-stage manufacturing at Jaguar Land Rover, to spearhead its manufacturing efforts.
So far, Vertical states that is has roughly 1,500 pre-orders of the VX4 valued at $6 billion, from airlines/operators including American Airlines, Japan Airlines, GOL and of course Bristow. The list will only continue to grow with future successes of the VX4, and the lower cost entry for airlines and operators to enter the eVTOL market thanks to Vertical Aerospace’s collaboration with Bristow.
Financial Sustainability and Profitability
Vertical also aims to become sustainably cash generative by 2030, with expectations to reach cash break-even that year. With a focused OEM business model, the company is pursuing a capital-efficient path that targets gross profit margins exceeding 40% in the years that follow.
National Aviation Authority (NAA) Network: Certification Milestones and Flight Testing Progress
Certification of the VX4 is targeted for 2028, followed by the certification of its first major upgrade in 2030. This revised timeline reflects productive engagements with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), as well as promising results from ongoing flight testing. The VX4 has entered Phase 2 of its piloted flight test campaign, now performing untethered, piloted thrustborne flights—an essential step toward full certification. As eVTOL buzz reported, on 27th of May 2025 Vertical Aerospace flew Europe’s first wingborne piloted flight of an eVTOL.
“The VX4’s successful demonstration of wingborne flight marks a significant step towards commercial readiness. As the global leader in innovative and sustainable vertical lift, we look forward to continuing to partner with Vertical to unleash the disruptive advantages of this aircraft.” – David Stepanek, EVP & CTO, Bristow Group
Five Eyes nations, NAA Network, and Lord Andrew Parker
According to the company, the aircraft is performing beyond expectations. Furthermore, with the recently announced agreement regarding a streamlined certification processes among the Five Eyes nations (UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) within the National Aviation Authority (NAA) Network, one can only expect that some of the certification red tape will be reduced, that will most definitely come in handy for both Vertical Aerospace and Bristow.
With Lord Andrew Parker’s recent appointment to its Board of Directors of Vertical Aerospace (effective as of June 2, 2025), a new asset has joined Vertical in completing its mission certification milestones. Cooperation between the Five Eyes nations within the National Aviation Authority (NAA) Network will be further enhanced by Lord Andrew Parker’s expertise as Former MI5 Director General (2013- 2020). Serving in such a role as MI5 Director General, has given Lord Andrew Parker much experience in collaborating with the United States and other Five Eyes nations, as well as developing the professional relationships with peers in these countries in order to get things done within a mission critical time frame.
“I’m delighted to be joining Vertical at a time when the UK is positioning itself at the cutting edge of aerospace innovation. Vertical’s commitment to pioneering next generation aircraft, powered by breakthrough electric and hybrid technologies, offers real potential to transform both civil and defence operations. I look forward to supporting the team as they unlock the full value of these innovations — from sustainable passenger transport to critical government and military missions.” – Lord Andrew Parker, Board Director
“Lord Parker’s deep expertise in navigating complex regulatory, operational, and governmental frameworks is exactly what we need as we move toward real world deployment of our aircraft. His appointment is highly aligned with our strategy to scale both civil and defence applications, and he brings a perspective that perfectly complements the diverse capabilities already represented on our Board. As we expand our hybrid-electric programme and deepen our engagement with government and institutional partners, his leadership will be invaluable.” – Domhnal Slattery, Chairman at Vertical Aerospace
The Five Eyes (FVEY)
- Made up of The United States, UK, Canada, New Zealand and Australia
- Shares intel between the respective countries
- Originated out of cooperation during WW2
- Has connections with military and civilian government agencies throughout the world
Expanding Capabilities and Passenger Flexibility
The VX4’s advanced powertrain not only delivers strong performance but also opens the door to future flexibility. While the current prototype is designed for four passengers, its wide cabin and robust propulsion system could allow for a six-passenger configuration and extended range with minimal modifications, avoiding major design overhauls or re-certification.
1,000-mile Hybrid-Electric VTOL Programme
Vertical announced on May 12, 2025, its 1,000-mile Hybrid-Electric VTOL Programme which will allow for Vertical to push the limits of AAM aviation, and enter AAM markets by addressing the needs of both civil and military customers that require long distance capabilities of hybrid eVTOL aircraft. Having Former MI5 Director Lord Andrew Parker on board, provides not only insight into the needs of governmental institutions, but as mentioned earlier, provides unique connections to military and intelligence branches across the world, including within the Five Eyes nations.
“The demand for long-range, high-payload, quiet aircraft is growing rapidly – especially across defense and critical logistics” ….. “Our hybrid-electric VTOL strategy builds on our existing electric platform, world-class battery technology and large, versatile airframe, allowing us to offer uniquely scalable solutions that unlock a new frontier in air mobility and revenue stream for Vertical.” – Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace.
The reduced noise and heat signatures of a hybrid electric VX4 would provide the operator/end user increased capabilities in sensitive military and intelligence missions, as well as in police/law enforcement missions. Similarly, the unmanned/uncrewed Flight Control System that Vertical is developing with Honeywell, is something Lord Andrew Parker would have wished existed during his tenure at MI5.
Besides the 1,000 mile range of the hybrid XV4 (10 X longer than Vertical’s regular VX4 eVTOL), the hybrid eVTOL version of the XV4 sports a 1,100 kg carrying capacity.
Photo by Adam Gasson / Vertical Aerospace
Furthermore, the hybrid eVTOL segment is rapidly expanding in the AAM segment with the likes of Horizon Aircraft, XTI Aerospace, AMSL Aero, Stellar Jet, Odys Aviation, and Archer (partnering with Anduril) already working on hybrid eVTOLs, some of which are hydrogen powered. This reality, in addition to Electra’s long distance hybrid eSTOL, makes it is imperative that Vertical Aerospace keeps up their momentum on technical innovation.
The beauty of the hybrid integration among some eVTOL manufacturers (including Vertical Aerospace) is that various power plants can be installed on existing eVTOL platforms that are designed to accept multiple propulsion systems. The second-generation version of Vertical’s hybrid-propulsion system has been in the works for 18 months already at the Vertical Energy Centre. Vertical plans that by Q2 2026, this hybrid-propulsion system will be installed into a Vertical Aerospace VX4 and begin test flights.
Commitment to Safety
Safety remains at the core of Vertical’s mission. The company is committed to maintaining a zero-accident rate and certifying the VX4 to the highest aviation safety standard — 10⁻⁹, equivalent to that of commercial airliners. Vertical is embedding this standard across all aspects of its operations.
As 2030 approaches, Vertical Aerospace is charting a clear and ambitious path, positioning itself to be a leader in the emerging electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) market. With solid partnerships, technological innovation, and a focus on scale, profitability, and safety, the company is poised to redefine the future of urban air mobility.
Your Trip in an eVTOL, Sooner than Later
With Vertical Aerospace on the right path to obtain the profitability necessary to further invest in their own R&D by 2030, currently 1,500+ preorders (and growing) that can be delivered on time, Bristow providing support services to operators purchasing Vertical’s XV4 eVTOL aircraft, and the recent National Aviation Authority (NAA) Network decision to streamline much of the certification process for AAM aircraft (such as eVTOLs and hybrid eVTOLs), you may find yourself in the passenger seat or a pilot’s seat (if you are very fortunate) of an eVTOL sooner than you would think!.
#fffe71
More info:
Vertical Aerospace and Bristow June 12th 2025 press release: click here
Bristow’s AAM Philosophical guide: click here
Vertical Aerospace’s “Flightpath 2030”: click here
Vertical Aerospace first to fly piloted wingborne flight of an eVTOL in Europe: click here
Vertical Aerospace Announces 1,000-mile Hybrid-Electric VTOL Programme: click here