Vertical Aerospace conducted tests of its VX4 flying taxi in open skies in the United Kingdom on Thursday.
The VX4 electric aircraft prototype is capable of vertical take-off and landing. The experimental flight was conducted over the Cotswolds region in south-west England, using a runway at a local airport for take-off.
The launch was performed by pilot Simon Davies. The runway of the airport was used to accelerate the aircraft.
The flying taxi can carry up to four passengers. It can reach speeds of up to 240 km/h. The estimated flight range of the VX4 is no more than 160 km.
Vertical Aerospace is actively working on the creation of flying taxis that will be able to safely transport passengers in urban areas. The British government plans to make this technology available by 2028, which could change the approach to urban transport. The next stage of testing for the VX4 will focus on demonstrating its vertical take-off capabilities.
