Vertical Aerospace: UK's Next Major Global Exporter? | Aerospace News
Vertical Aerospace Positioned to Become UK’s Next Major Global Exporter
A new independent analysis from Frontier Economics suggests that Vertical Aerospace, a leading developer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, could emerge as one of the United Kingdom’s most significant global exporters in the coming decade.
According to the November 2025 report, Vertical Aerospace is projected to generate £3 billion ($4 billion USD) in UK economic value annually by 2035. The findings are substantial: over the next ten years, the company has the potential to create more than 2,000 high-value jobs while generating nearly £9 billion ($12 billion USD) in annual revenue. Notably, approximately 90% of this income would derive from exports, positioning Vertical as a critical driver of UK industrial capability on the global stage.
The report emphasizes that Vertical Aerospace is already demonstrating measurable economic impact. The company has attracted significant foreign investment, generated high-value employment opportunities, and strengthened supply chains across the South West and broader UK manufacturing ecosystem.
“Vertical Aerospace’s trajectory illustrates how an innovative business can act as a catalyst for economic growth, industrial capability and technological leadership,” said Andrew Leicester, Executive Director at Frontier Economics. “Our independent analysis found that Vertical is a critical anchor in the fast-growing eVTOL sector, and a significant contributor to the UK’s advanced manufacturing future, particularly in the West of England.”
The analysis aligns with government priorities, including the Industrial Strategy and Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan. Additionally, eVTOL technology offers dual-use potential for both civilian and military applications, supporting broader UK defense ambitions.
Timing is critical for this opportunity. On November 13, 2025, Vertical Aerospace announced it had entered the fourth and final flight-test phase of its prototype eVTOL aircraft, following receipt of a ‘Permit to Fly’ from the UK Civil Aviation Authority. This milestone represents significant progress after the company successfully completed prototype flight-test phases 1, 2, and 3 earlier in 2025, including its first open-air space flights.
Looking ahead, Vertical Aerospace is evaluating locations for its first assembly and battery manufacturing sites, with a decision expected within six months. While the company hasn’t confirmed whether these facilities will be UK-based, the decision will have substantial implications for domestic manufacturing and job creation.
“This report makes it clearer than ever what the opportunity is for Vertical and the UK,” stated Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace. “Now is the time to deliver it.”
As the eVTOL sector continues to mature globally, Vertical Aerospace’s progression through critical development milestones positions the UK as a potential hub for advanced aerospace manufacturing and innovation in urban air mobility.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764864046392-1149