The newly completed aircraft is an exact replica of Vertical’s current full-scale prototype, which is already undertaking transition flight testing at the company’s UK Flight Test Centre. The most recent flight was conducted on 19 December 2025, with additional tests scheduled in the coming days. Following commissioning in January 2026, the final prototype will enter piloted flight testing, effectively doubling Vertical’s available flight test capacity.

As the last aircraft in Vertical’s prototype programme, the new vehicle integrates advanced systems and technologies from key aerospace partners including Honeywell, Molicel and Syensqo. Initial testing will be conducted in an all-electric configuration, after which the aircraft will be retrofitted for hybrid-electric flight testing during 2026.

Stuart Simpson, Chief Executive Officer of Vertical Aerospace, said the additional prototype represents a critical step towards commercial readiness. “As we look ahead to 2026, the addition of our final prototype marks an important step in closing out our prototype flight test programme and maintaining momentum towards commercialisation. Our test pilots are eager to get this aircraft into the air.”

The announcement follows the recent unveiling of Valo, Vertical’s next-generation certification aircraft, which is scheduled to enter commercial service following certification in 2028. As part of its certification programme, Vertical plans to build seven Valo aircraft in the UK to support final testing with the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.

Vertical also plans to begin a United States tour with Valo in 2026, starting in New York City in January, as it continues to showcase the aircraft to customers, partners and stakeholders.

Valo is a piloted, four-passenger electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft designed to operate with zero emissions during flight. In parallel, Vertical is developing a hybrid-electric variant to provide increased range and operational flexibility in response to evolving advanced air mobility requirements.

Headquartered in Bristol, UK, Vertical Aerospace combines its proprietary battery and propeller technologies with partnerships across the aerospace sector. The company reports approximately 1,500 pre-orders for Valo from customers across four continents, including major airlines and leasing companies.