The UK Boosts the Foundation of the Revolutionary eVTOL Industry
The UK government is aiming for Britain to lead the revolution in electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL), which is widely regarded as the biggest shake-up in the aviation industry for decades.
To ensure that the UK does not lag behind, plans to support and boost the development of eVTOL aircraft and the necessary infrastructure to back them up are moving forward, stated the local government.
Additionally, on March 18th, the UK’s action plan for the future of flights was published, revealing how flying cars and drone technology could be leveraged to create a £45 billion industry by the end of the decade.
According to the plans, the UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) states that the first piloted flying taxi flight will take place by 2026, and regular services will become a way of life by 2028.
By 2027, the DfT indicated that there would be regular drone deliveries in the UK skies and demonstrations of autonomous eVTOL aircraft by 2030.
The joint plan formed in collaboration between the industry and the government sets the strategic direction of the sector for the coming years, “achieving a balance between innovation, safety, and emissions reduction.”
“Cutting-edge battery technology will revolutionize transportation as we know it; this plan ensures we have the necessary infrastructure and regulation to make it happen. From flying taxis to drones for emergency services, we are making sure the UK is at the forefront of this dramatic shift in transport, improving people’s lives and boosting the economy,” said Anthony Browne, Minister of Aviation and Technology.
The Future of Flight action plan includes details on how to enable drones to fly beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS), how smaller underused aerodromes can form the infrastructure for vertiports, the development of standards to improve drone safety to increase public safety, and engaging communities and local authorities in technology.
The action plan features a vision of drone technology that could be used to deliver packages across the country, including to remote islands, and quickly find and repair faults in the railway system.
“Aviation is on the cusp of its next revolution, potentially the biggest since the invention of the jet engine. Drones, eVTOL, and other different vehicles have the potential to change transport options forever. Our role will be to enable technological advances and provide regulatory support, while ensuring that all forms of new aviation technology enjoy the same high safety standards as traditional aviation,” commented Sophie O’Sullivan, Director of Future Safety and Innovation at the CAA.
The UK government hopes that by establishing a clear plan and structure for the development of eVTOL aircraft, companies like Vertical Aerospace will have the confidence to continue breaking barriers in the sector.
“If the government and businesses work together, we can unlock the enormous economic, environmental, and social benefits of zero-emission flights globally. Vertical is very proud to be at the forefront of leading this new chapter,” said Stephen Fitzpatrick, founder and CEO of Vertical Aerospace.
