Vertical Aerospace tested the VX4 electric air cab with a pilot in the cockpit

The British company Vertical Aerospace tested the VX4 air cab with a pilot in the cockpit for the first time. Although a tethered prototype took part in the tests.

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Rather unexpectedly Vertical Aerospace managed to get permission to test an air cab with a person inside. Perhaps the decision of the national regulator was influenced by the fact that the aircraft was tethered as part of the tests and even in the event of an accident could not harm the pilot.

The current version of the VX4 is a 1-to-1 scale prototype designed specifically for the tests. The final version of the air cab will be able to carry up to five people on board. Vertical Aerospace has already received 1,400 pre-orders from airlines, helicopter operators and travel agencies through active advertising. Moreover, the company claims to be ready to exceed the annual demand for the helicopters (1,000 units a year).

It will be several years before the VX4 is commercially available. Vertical Aerospace plans to complete certification by 2025. The air cab will be able to reach speeds of 325 km/h and have a range of 161 km. VX4 has eight engines for vertical thrust and propellers for horizontal flight.

Source: New Atlas