Vertical Aerospace has unveiled the full-scale prototype of its Valo electric aircraft, giving the public the first in-person look at its next-generation eVTOL model.
The company presented the aircraft at an open house in Canary Wharf, describing the prototype as a major step toward its vision of clean, fast, and accessible urban air mobility.
“Valo is the aircraft that turns electric flight into a commercial reality – clean, quiet, fast and engineered for everyday service,” CEO Stuart Simpson said.
“It marks a new dawn in transport, one that will connect people in minutes, not hours.”
Vertical Aerospace believes Valo could receive regulatory approval within three years.
If the schedule stays on track, the aircraft could enter commercial service as early as 2028.
Initial routes are expected to include airport-to-city transfers, with destinations such as London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Cambridge, Oxford, and Bicester on the proposed network map.
To meet regulatory requirements, Vertical Aerospace plans to build seven certification aircraft in the UK.
These units will undergo extensive testing under the supervision of both the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.
Type Certification — the formal approval needed for new aircraft designs — will determine when Valo can begin carrying passengers.
Valo is designed to fly up to 100 miles at speeds of up to 150 mph.
Vertical Aerospace said the aircraft will debut with a four-seat cabin, offering space for six cabin bags and six checked bags.
Panoramic windows and a privacy-oriented cockpit divider are part of the design.
The company added that the engineering allows for a future expansion to six seats, which could reduce passenger fares over time.
A company spokesperson said the aircraft will initially operate as a premium service, similar to high-end airport transfers.
Like early helicopter charters, early pricing is expected to reflect the cost of new technology.
However, the company anticipates that the aircraft will eventually become far more affordable.
“Where it starts to become affordable is, we’ve got a vehicle that can fly lots of times a day, can carry lots of passengers, needs very little maintenance, is very efficient to operate,” the spokesperson said.
“Ultimately, the potential is for this aircraft to be a similar cost as hiring an Uber.”
Vertical Aerospace will sell the aircraft to operators, who will then set the ticket prices for passengers.
The Valo is also being developed for alternate applications, including medical transport and cargo operations.
Domhnal Slattery, chairman of Vertical Aerospace, said the Valo program showcases Britain’s leading position in aviation innovation.
“Valo sets a new standard – bigger, safer and more capable than anything in the sector,” he said.
“It’s a breakthrough for aviation and a clear sign of the UK’s leadership in aerospace.”
He added that the aircraft combines precision engineering, customer-focused design, and collaboration with major aerospace partners.
The open house event runs from 10am to 2pm at The Pelligon in Canary Wharf.
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