Vertical Aerospace has received authorization from the UK Civil Aviation Authority to perform public flight demonstrations of its eVTOL aircraft at the upcoming Farnborough International Airshow. Running from July 20 to 24, these sessions mark the first time an electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle will fly publicly at the event.
The regulatory approval represents a significant step for the company as it advances toward commercial service. The permit allows Vertical to operate beyond its dedicated flight test facility, following successful test flights to several regional airports. During the show, the company will showcase its piloted prototype in the air while displaying a full-scale commercial model of its Valo aircraft on the ground.
This public debut places Vertical alongside industry peers like Joby and Archer during a week of high-profile sector discussions. As the company works toward a planned Critical Design Review by the end of 2026, the demonstration serves as a platform to highlight progress in its certification roadmap. Company leadership is scheduled to participate in various industry forums throughout the week to address the evolving landscape of advanced air mobility.