Vertical Aerospace (NYSE: EVTL), a leader in zero-emissions aviation technology, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of Phase 1 in the piloted flight test program for its VX4 prototype at the Vertical Flight Test Centre.
During this initial phase, the VX4 prototype underwent a series of piloted tethered flights and ground runs, encompassing 20 test sorties and 70 individual test points. These tests simulated a variety of flight and operational scenarios, validating the prototype’s safety and performance, including its response to potential failures.
One critical test involved simulating the failure of an Electric Propulsion Unit (EPU) during tethered flight to ensure the aircraft maintained safety and stability under such conditions. This rigorous testing approach highlights Vertical’s commitment to ensuring the safety of their design.
The testing phase enabled the collection of 35,000 flight and system parameters, confirming the operational reliability of all systems across different conditions. Advanced low and high-speed taxi tests were also performed, including high-speed EPU failure simulations to assess controllability and safety.
Vertical Aerospace is working closely with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to expand its Permit to Fly as it prepares for Phase 2 of testing, which will include piloted thrustborne flight tests. In parallel, the company is developing a full-scale prototype to expedite the VX4’s flight test program and further refine the design.
Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, remarked:
“We made remarkable progress from our first ground test to having our chief test pilot fly the VX4 within a week. Completing this initial testing phase is a significant achievement and demonstrates the strength of our aircraft, team, and partners. Our continued progress through the flight test program brings us closer to revolutionizing travel.”
Phase 1 Testing Overview:
- Piloted Tethered Flight: Stabilized hover tests with closed-loop flight control, including simulated failure scenarios for EPU.
- Ground Vibration Testing (GVT): Conducted with eight heavy-duty shakers and 350 accelerometers to test aircraft stress and vibrations.
- Powertrain Testing: Evaluated powertrain performance, including High Voltage ripple tests to ensure stable power delivery.
- Dynamic Testing: Verified system functionality and component integration under operational conditions.
- Propeller Testing: Balanced and spun propellers to minimize vibrations.
- Taxi Testing: Assessed the VX4’s ground handling, including brake performance and directional control.
Upcoming Testing Phases:
- Phase 2 – Thrustborne: Vertical takeoff and landing with low-speed flight maneuvers.
- Phase 3 – Wingborne: Conventional flight with wing-generated lift.
- Phase 4 – Transition: Maneuvers between thrustborne and wingborne flight.
The new VX4 prototype boasts a 20% increase in power-to-weight ratio, allowing speeds up to 150 mph. It features next-generation propellers and proprietary battery technology, developed at the Vertical Energy Centre near Bristol, UK.
Notes to Editors:
The VX4 prototype represents Vertical Aerospace’s commitment to advancing the future of aviation with innovative, sustainable technology, supported by global aerospace partners like GKN Aerospace, Honeywell, Hanwha, Molicel, Leonardo, and Syensqo.