Electric flying taxis set to launch in London by 2028

London could see electric flying taxis transporting airport passengers as early as 2028, British aerospace company Vertical Aerospace announced. Its Valo aircraft, designed to carry up to six passengers, aims to secure regulatory approval within three years, with commercial routes expected to connect airports to city centres.

The company plans to showcase a full-scale prototype at an open house event in Canary Wharf on December 10.

“Valo is the aircraft that turns electric flight into a commercial reality – clean, quiet, fast and engineered for everyday service,” Vertical Aerospace CEO Stuart Simpson told The Independent. “It marks a new dawn in transport, one that will connect people in minutes, not hours.”

Initial routes will include connections to London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Cambridge, Oxford, and Bicester. The company is set to build seven certification aircraft in the UK for final testing with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Once approved, Valo will enter commercial service.

Capable of flying up to 100 miles at speeds of up to 150mph, Valo will initially feature a four-seat cabin, room for six cabin bags, and a privacy divider. The design allows for a potential expansion to six seats, lowering fares for passengers.

“Like all new technology, Vertical Aerospace expects its aircraft will initially be a premium product used for airport transfers, but will evolve and become very affordable once production grows,” a spokesperson said.

The aircraft is designed to be cheaper than helicopters and could eventually compete with ground transport costs.

“Ultimately, the potential is for this aircraft to be a similar cost as hiring an Uber,” the spokesperson added.

Vertical Aerospace also sees potential for the aircraft in emergency medical services and cargo missions. Chairman Domhnal Slattery emphasised, “Valo sets a new standard – bigger, safer and more capable than anything in the sector. It’s a breakthrough for aviation and a clear sign of the UK’s leadership in aerospace.”

By Sabina Mammadli