Aerial appearances will soon become commonplace.

Vertical Aerospace's VX-4 Electric Flying Taxi Completes Historic Airport-to-Airport Flight

In a significant step towards the future of urban mobility, Vertical Aerospace's VX-4 electric flying taxi has completed a groundbreaking airport-to-airport flight during the Royal International Air Tattoo, held between July 18 and 20.

The flight, which took place from Vertical's Flight Test Center at Cotswold Airport to RAF Fairford, marked a significant milestone in the development of this innovative transportation solution. The flight was designed for commercial service and received full authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority.

The VX-4, a four-passenger tiltrotor eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) vehicle, is capable of carrying a payload of up to 1.1 tons and can operate with an optional pilot, as well as support autonomous and remote-controlled flights. It comes in both electric and hybrid formats, with an estimated all-electric range of 100 miles (161 km) and a hybrid range of 1,000 miles (1,600 km).

The VX-4 is not just a vehicle for the future; it is already demonstrating its potential in the present. Vertical Aerospace has obtained approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority for its Safety Management System and Design Organisation Approval, and certification for the VX-4 is expected by 2028.

Meanwhile, in another part of the world, Joby Aviation made history by conducting the first commercial flight of an electric air taxi between two public airports in California. The company plans to obtain FAA certification and start commercial operations primarily in Los Angeles and New York, with certification expected around early 2026.

The advent of flying taxis is not just a dream of the future. Companies like Terrafugia, PAL-V, and Aeromobil are already manufacturing and commercializing flying vehicles. However, it's important to note that while the VX4 has demonstrated its capabilities, it has not yet received its type certification, and flying taxis are not yet able to fly commercially.

The successful airport-to-airport flight of the VX-4 demonstrates its ability to integrate with real-world airport activities, a crucial step towards its eventual integration into our daily lives. As we look towards the near future, it seems that the skies may soon be filled with electric flying taxis, offering a new and exciting mode of transportation.