Vertical Aerospace Enters Final Phase of eVTOL Prototype Flight-Test Program

November 14, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764101595219-307

UK-Based Company Advances Electric VTOL Aircraft Development Amid Regulatory Milestones

Vertical Aerospace has entered the final phase of its eVTOL prototype flight-test program, having received a ‘Permit to Fly’ from the UK CAA. The company completed phases 1, 2 and 3 earlier in the year, including flying in open air space for the first time. According to Vertical, more than 20,000 pages of safety and technical information were updated and submitted to the CAA during the process. CEO Stuart Simpson said that receiving the Permit to Fly marks a defining moment for Vertical Aerospace, demonstrating its unique approach to certification.

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Key Takeaways

Vertical Aerospace has entered the fourth and final flight test phase for its electric vehicle takeoff and landing (eVTOL) prototype aircraft.
The company received a ‘Permit to Fly’ from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
The VX4 prototype will transition between thrustborne and wingborne flight, and vice versa.
Vertical completed prototype flight test phases 1, 2 and 3 earlier in the year.
The company has spent months verifying every core system under close regulatory oversight.

Vertical Aerospace

Strategic Implications

This development may indicate Vertical Aerospace’s confidence in its eVTOL technology. The transition phase could be a critical demonstration of the VX4’s capabilities. The Permit to Fly marks an important milestone, suggesting that the company is making progress toward certification.