A Bristol-based aerospace firm says it is on track to launch an all-electric air taxi service by 2028, with the first builds taking place in Gloucestershire.
Vertical Aerospace (VA) plans to open a new factory at Cotswold Airport to assemble 25 of its VX4 flying taxis each year. The company is also investing in a battery facility at Avonmouth to triple production of the power units needed for the aircraft.
The VX4, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) craft, is designed to carry up to six passengers on journeys of up to 100 miles. With eight propellers and slim wings, it promises to be quieter, cheaper and emissions-free, with the ability to land in city centres.
Chief executive Stuart Simpson said the firm has moved from “ambition to execution”, adding: “This works. We know we can certify this.” VA hopes to scale production to 900 aircraft annually by 2035.