Vertical Aerospace Ltd. Business Update and Progress Report

Vertical Aerospace Ltd. announced a business update detailing significant progress in its aircraft programs. Key developments include receiving an expanded Permit to Fly from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, allowing for public demonstration flights. The company has expanded its flight test fleet with an additional prototype to accelerate testing and development. Vertical Aerospace expects to complete its Critical Design Review (CDR) by the end of 2026, which will establish the certifiable design baseline for its aircraft. Manufacturing capabilities are also being enhanced, with an early production aircraft assembly facility targeted for Q3 2026 and an expanded Vertical Energy Centre for batteries in Q4 2026. The hybrid-electric propulsion system has begun testing, and the company anticipates selecting a turbogenerator supplier in 2026, with flight testing planned for H1 2027. All key systems suppliers have been engaged for the electric aircraft. While previously facing risks to its 2028 certification timeline, Vertical Aerospace now projects Type Certification for its Valo aircraft in 2029, reflecting the complexity of certifying a new aircraft class. The company has approximately 1,500 conditional pre-orders valued at $6 billion.