Vertical & Bristow partner to electrify helicopter market

eVTOL specialist Bristow has signed a partnership agreement with UK-based zero-emissions aviation company Vertical Aerospace for the certification, operational planning and potential purchase of up to 50 eVTOL aircraft.

Vertical Aerospace was launched by Stephen Fitzpatrick, founder of OVO Energy, in 2016. The company's vision is to decarbonise air travel using the best technology from the aviation, energy and automotive industries.

Vertical says its four-passenger, one pilot VA-X4 will have speeds of up to 233 km/h (200 mph) (174 knots), a range of more than 60 kilometres (100 miles), will be near-silent when in flight and with zero emissions and low cost per passenger mile.

“Our MoU with Vertical allows us to build upon our leadership position in the vertical transportation market for the past 70+ years and now sets the stage for the disruptive advantages of the VA-X4 with its zero carbon emissions and low operating costs for passenger transport," said Bristow President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Bradshaw.

Read more: Urban Air-Port & Hyundai team up to develop urban air mobility hubs

"Our expansion into these new and existing geographic markets with sustainable, innovative and efficient vertical lift and aerial transport services will offer passengers superior regional air mobility solutions. As the global leader in vertical lift, Bristow’s operational expertise and efficiency, supported by the trust and confidence of our customers, can safely bring eVTOL aircraft into the market.”

Stephen Fitzpatrick, Founder and CEO of Vertical Aerospace, added: “Bristow’s global expertise and reach means it is the perfect partner for Vertical as we seek to pioneer the transition to zero emissions flight. We look forward to working with Bristow and accelerating the commercial operation of eVTOLs.”

As part of the deal, the two companies have agreed to develop a joint working group to collaborate on the following areas: regulatory and airspace; demand, fleet size, spare parts and infrastructure; potential customers; and public acceptance and environmental requirements.

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