VX4 programme moves to the next phase 

Vertical Aerospace (Vertical) has concluded its remote thrustborne flight test campaign in July 2023, as the first full-scale VX4 prototype reached its target speed of 40kts (70 kmph), demonstrating “exceptional overall stability and control”. Vertical stated that performance targets were generally exceeded by 10-30% during hover and low speed flights. The prototype performed especially well in sustained hover, said the company, typically the most challenging regime for a VTOL aircraft, where it maintained level flight for longer than anticipated. The aim of these thrustborne flight tests was to verify acceptable stability, battery efficiency and control characteristics, aerodynamics, structural loads, performance and vibration throughout this speed range