FutureFlight
London Heathrow Airport Makes Plans For eVTOL Aircraft Operations
The UK airport has been working with eVTOL aircraft developer Vertical Aerospace to consider what preparations are needed to integrate the new electric vehicles with existing airline operations.
London Heathrow Airport
Virgin Atlantics Airways intends to operate Vertical Aerospace's VA-X4 eVTOL aircraft on flights connecting with long-haul services in and out of London Heathrow Airport. (Photo: London Heathrow Airport)

London Heathrow Airport is making plans to integrate eVTOL aircraft operations through a partnership with Vertical Aerospace. Through a new collaborative project announced on October 25, the companies will explore what steps need to be taken for new models like Vertical’s four-passenger VA-X4 to begin operations at the major airline hub from the mid-2020s. The scope of the work covers anticipated regulatory changes, maximizing the creation of new jobs, and minimizing any impact on the local community.

According to Vertical, the VA-X4 will have a cruise speed of 200 mph and be able to fly from Heathrow on the west side of London to the heart of the city’s financial district in 12 minutes. Due to heavy road congestion, the 18-mile journey can often take an hour or more by car.