Vertical Aerospace and Honeywell Enhance Partnership for VX4 eVTOL Launch
Vertical Aerospace (NYSE: EVTL) and Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) have announced the signing of a new long-term agreement, taking their collaboration to new heights as they work on the certification and production of the VX4, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The expanded partnership aims to ensure the safety and efficiency of the VX4 by certifying two crucial systems: the aircraft management system, which features the Honeywell Anthem Flight deck, and a state-of-the-art flight control system using Honeywell’s compact fly-by-wire technology. Both systems are designed to be certified for the upcoming production version of the aircraft.
The Anthem flight deck serves as the centralized control hub for the VX4, integrating cockpit displays, software, and connectivity into a user-friendly digital platform that enhances pilot decision-making. The fly-by-wire system will facilitate more reliable aircraft control by allowing electronic inputs rather than traditional mechanical ones, ultimately boosting safety and flight stability.
This partnership is set to adhere to rigorous safety standards of 10-9, established by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in conjunction with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Achieving this high safety benchmark, which equates to a catastrophic failure rate of one in a billion flight hours, positions the VX4 to lead the market in eVTOL certification and exportability.
Collaborative Development for Rapid Progress
Through this partnership, Vertical and Honeywell will share resources, including expertise and testing facilities, to expedite the development process and facilitate a swift move to production. The firms plan to certify the VX4 by 2028 and aim to deliver at least 150 units to customers by 2030. This collaboration has the potential to generate $1 billion in contract value over the next ten years.
The relationship has blossomed over a six-year period, allowing both companies to tackle challenges in advanced air mobility by integrating Honeywell’s flight systems into the VX4’s prototype program. Recent test flights will be building upon previous trial flights, with plans for piloted wingborne tests to begin soon.
Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, stated, “Honeywell’s extensive aerospace expertise makes it an ideal partner as we push towards global certification and scalable production. By incorporating proven technologies, we’re focusing on creating an aircraft that meets the pinnacle of aviation safety standards.”
David Shilliday, Honeywell’s VP of Advanced Air Mobility, remarked, “We’re eager to deepen our collaboration with Vertical to harness our integrated avionics and flight control technologies to propel advanced, safe, and reliable air mobility solutions.”
Innovations in Control Systems
Additionally, Vertical has selected new Honeywell inceptors for the VX4, which will allow pilots to control the aircraft with enhanced precision. These innovative hand controllers will provide intuitive feedback to the flight control computer, ensuring smoother handling and a safer flying experience, which is vital for regulatory approval and operational expansion.
Rich DeGraff, President of Control Systems at Honeywell Aerospace, expressed enthusiasm for the ongoing collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled that Vertical is the first to implement our state-of-the-art super lightweight inceptors, designed to seamlessly integrate with the Honeywell Compact Fly-by-Wire system.”
About Vertical Aerospace
Vertical Aerospace is at the forefront of electric aviation technology, committed to delivering cleaner, quieter, and safer modes of transportation. Their flagship VX4 aircraft is designed to be emissions-free and offers four-passenger capacity. Vertical has amassed around 1,500 pre-orders from notable clients globally, including American Airlines and Japan Airlines.
About Honeywell
Honeywell is a major player across various industries, providing innovative solutions in automation, aviation, and energy transition. With a strong commitment to sustainability and safety, Honeywell aims to address complex challenges that organizations face worldwide through its diverse business segments.
