Vertical Aerospace: how airlines helped shape the design of new Valo eVTOL

December 12, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1765565566212-1343

Airlines Influence Electric VTOL Design for Faster, More Efficient Travel

Vertical Aerospace has unveiled its new eVTOL aircraft Valo at an exclusive event in London’s Canary Wharf. The company’s design was influenced by insights from its piloted test program and direct feedback from airline customers, including American Airlines, Japan Airlines, GOL, and Bristow. According to Vertical’s Chief Test Pilot Simon Davies, the new design aims to reduce travel times from two-plus hours to 20 minutes, while also accommodating passenger baggage. AeroTime reports that the company has around 1,500 pre-orders for its aircraft and has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Héli Air Monaco for a pre-order. The Valo prototype will undergo final testing with the UK CAA and EASA before entry into service.

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Key Takeaways

Vertical Aerospace unveiled its new electric vehicle and takeoff (eVTOL) aircraft Valo.
The company’s design was shaped by insights from piloted test program and direct feedback from airline customers.
Seven Valo prototypes will be built to support final testing with the UK CAA and EASA.

Vertical Aerospace American Airlines Japan Airlines GOL Bristow Héli Air Monaco

Strategic Implications

This development may indicate Vertical Aerospace’s focus on meeting the needs of airlines and operators in the eVTOL market. The company’s design optimization efforts suggest a commitment to improving efficiency and reducing range limitations, which could be beneficial for airlines looking to offer faster, more convenient services. However, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the overall cost and feasibility of the Valo aircraft.