Vertical Recruits Chief Test Pilot To Start Flight Tests with VA-X4 Prototype in 2022
The UK-based start-up has previously said it expected to start flight testing before the end of 2021 as it aims to complete type certification in 2024.
Vertical Aerospace has appointed Justin Paines as its chief test pilot, having recruited him from rival eVTOL aircraft developer Joby Aviation. The former Royal Air Force (RAF) test pilot will lead flight testing of the prototype for Vertical's four-passenger VA-X4 model, which will now begin in 2022.
The UK-based company has previously said that it expected flight testing to get underway before the end of 2021, as it aims to bring the aircraft into commercial service in 2024. This milestone has now been pushed back by several months due to what are understood to be production delays related to one particular tool required to manufacture the first prototype.
