Vertical Aerospace Group, a leading UK-based company developing electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has secured pre-orders from American Airlines and Virgin Atlantic.
The company confirmed that it had received up to 1,000 aircraft pre-orders with launch customers American Airlines and Avolon, as well as pre-order options for Virgin Atlantic. Together, these pre-orders are valued at up to $US4 billion.
Stephen Fitzpatrick, Vertical CEO and Founder said: “This is the most exciting time in aviation for almost a century; electrification will transform flying in the 21st century in the same way the jet engine did 70 years ago.
“Today’s announcement brings together some of the largest and most respected technology and aeronautical businesses in the world and together we can achieve our aim of making the VA-X4 the first zero carbon aircraft that most people will fly on.”
On the orders, American Airlines has agreed to pre-order (subject to certain conditions and milestones) up to 250 aircraft, with an option to order an additional 100 aircraft. Virgin Atlantic has an option to purchase between 50 and 150 aircraft.
Derek Kerr, Chief Financial Officer, of American Airlines said: “Emerging technologies are critical in the race to reduce carbon emissions and we are excited to partner with Vertical to develop the next generation of electric aircraft.”
