Core Insights - Vertical Aerospace has received its Permit to Fly from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), allowing the company to commence 'Phase 4 – Transition' flight testing of its VX4 prototype, marking a significant milestone in its flight-test program [2][3][6] Flight Testing Phases - 'Phase 4 – Transition' is the final stage of the VX4 prototype flight test program, following the successful completion of Phases 1-3, which confirmed the aircraft's flying qualities [4][6] - Phase 1 involved tethered hover testing, completed on September 12, 2024, while Phase 2 focused on thrustborne take-off and landing, completed on February 4, 2025, and Phase 3 involved wingborne flight, completed on September 5, 2025 [8][13] Technical and Safety Aspects - The transition testing will demonstrate the VX4's ability to shift between hover (helicopter mode) and wingborne flight (airplane mode), a key feature of its tiltrotor capability [3][6] - Over 20,000 pages of safety and technical documentation were submitted to the CAA to support the Permit to Fly, ensuring compliance with the 200 Minimum Safe Aircraft requirements [5][6] Market Position and Future Plans - Vertical Aerospace is positioned as a leader in electric aviation, with a focus on creating a safer, cleaner, and quieter travel option through its VX4 eVTOL aircraft, which has zero operating emissions [9][11] - The company has approximately 1,500 pre-orders for the VX4 from customers across four continents, including major airlines such as American Airlines and Japan Airlines [11]

Core Insights - Vertical Aerospace is a global aerospace and technology company focused on pioneering electric aviation [1] - The company will provide its Business & Strategy Update for the third quarter of 2025 [1] - The Q3 2025 financial results will be accessible on the company's investor relations website [1] - The VX4 Vertical aircraft will begin its transition flight testing phase soon [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a cash position of $123.4 million at the end of Q3 2025, which has slightly decreased to $117 million as of the current date [17] - Full-year guidance for spending is maintained at $110 million to $125 million, which is 75% below main competitors [17] - Anticipated spending over the next 12 months is projected to be $235 million [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focused on the piloted transition flight as a critical milestone in the VX4 development and certification program [6][7] - The VX4 aircraft design features a passenger cabin that is 70% larger than competitors, with a cockpit that is 50% larger and a luggage compartment that is 200% larger [11] - The ability to scale from four to six passengers allows operators to increase revenue by 50% and significantly improve margins [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has one of the industry's largest and globally diversified order books, with a unique competitive advantage due to partnerships with tier-one global lessors [21] - The defense market in Europe is expected to see increased budgets, with the company in direct dialogue with major governments regarding potential aircraft procurement [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to conclude a partnership with a global strategic player and significantly grow its order book [21] - Manufacturing strategy includes a phased approach with plans for facilities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia to meet increasing demand [35][38] - The company is focused on maintaining a lean and cost-effective model by sourcing parts from tier-one aerospace manufacturers [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving certification by the second half of 2028, emphasizing a transparent and rigorous certification process [56][60] - The company is actively engaging with potential strategic partners to support its ramp from certification to commercialization [23][24] - Management highlighted the importance of passenger comfort and operator profitability as key drivers for long-term commercial success [10] Other Important Information - The company received design organization approval in 2023, affirming regulatory confidence in its engineering and development processes [9] - The piloted transition flight is expected to be completed within weeks, marking a significant step in the certification timeline [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Status of aircraft three production and hybrid powertrain development - Management confirmed that aircraft three production is on track for completion in early December and that hybrid powertrain development is also progressing as planned [26] Question: Manufacturing strategy and potential partnerships - The company is pursuing a prudent approach to manufacturing, with plans for three facilities by the middle of the next decade and discussions with the U.K. government regarding major facilities [34][38] Question: Opportunities in the defense market - Management indicated strong interest from European governments in the aircraft, with expectations of securing the first order in 2026 [29] Question: Clarification on funding from the U.K. government - The company is part of a government initiative to link Oxford and Cambridge, with plans to demonstrate capabilities over the next 12 months [46] Question: Non-dilutive funding opportunities - Management confirmed that there are opportunities for non-dilutive funding in the defense sector, particularly as negotiations with governments progress [76] Question: Aircraft capabilities for defense customers - The aircraft's silent takeoff and landing capabilities, along with low noise and thermal signatures, are expected to be highly attractive to military customers [78]

Core Viewpoint - Vertical Aerospace is set to report its Q3 business update on November 4, 2025, and will host a webcast to discuss the update [1][2]. Financial Information - As of September 30, 2025, Vertical Aerospace had cash and cash equivalents totaling approximately £92 million ($123 million) [3]. Company Overview - Vertical Aerospace is a global aerospace and technology company focused on pioneering electric aviation, aiming to create safer, cleaner, and quieter travel options [4]. - The company's flagship product, the VX4, is a piloted, four-passenger Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft with zero operating emissions [4]. - Vertical is also developing a hybrid-electric variant to enhance range and mission flexibility for the advanced air mobility market [4]. Partnerships and Orders - Vertical Aerospace has approximately 1,500 pre-orders for the VX4 from customers across four continents, including major airlines such as American Airlines and Japan Airlines [6]. - The company collaborates with leading aerospace firms like GKN, Honeywell, and Aciturri, leveraging proprietary battery and propeller technology [5]. Regulatory Developments - The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has published an eVTOL Delivery Model, providing a regulatory framework for commercial eVTOL operations in the UK by 2028, which Vertical Aerospace welcomes [12].

Core Viewpoint - Vertical Aerospace has announced a long-term strategic partnership with Aciturri Aerostructures, which is a significant step in its evolution and manufacturing strategy, as highlighted by its stable first-half 2025 financial report [1][10]. Manufacturing Strategy - The partnership with Aciturri is crucial for Vertical's manufacturing strategy, covering the production of the entire airframe structure, including the high-lift wing, fuselage, and pylons for electric propulsion units [4][5]. - By consolidating a large portion of the supply chain with an experienced partner, Vertical reduces execution risk and capital expenditure associated with building a manufacturing operation from scratch [5][8]. - Aciturri's extensive experience with major aviation companies ensures that the VX4's airframe will meet stringent aerospace standards [6][7]. Financial Position - Vertical Aerospace reported a strong cash position of approximately $137 million, supported by a $69 million capital raise in July, providing a financial runway extending into mid-2026 [11][12]. - The company maintains its full-year 2025 guidance for net operating cash outflow at approximately $110 million to $125 million, indicating effective budget control [12][13]. - The parallel progress in financial stability and flight testing demonstrates competent management capable of handling multiple complex workstreams [15]. Flight Testing and Development - Vertical has made significant advancements in its piloted wingborne flight test program, with multiple flights completed in open European airspace [13]. - The company is on track to complete the final and most challenging test phase in the second half of 2025, transitioning from vertical lift to efficient forward flight [14]. Strategic Growth and Leadership - The partnership with Aciturri complements Vertical's operational milestones and commercial plans, indicating a well-thought-out business strategy [16][17]. - The appointment of Lord Andrew Parker to the board enhances the company's credibility and access to high-value defense and government contracts, representing a potential revenue stream beyond urban air mobility [18]. - The investment narrative is shifting from "Can it fly?" to "How will it be built and sold?", reflecting a more mature business approach [19].

Operational Milestones - Vertical Aerospace is on track to meet every communicated target toward Flightpath 2030[16] - The company successfully completed a 15.2-meter battery pack drop test and full-scale thermal runaway propagation test in April 2025[21] - Vertical Aerospace is initiating production with long-range parts purchasing[18] Strategic Partnerships - Bristow upsizing pre-order option to purchase up to 50 more aircraft[41] - Vertical Aerospace announced a partnership with Bristow on June 12, 2025, to provide a "Ready-to-fly" model to Vertical's customers[45] Financial Status - As of June 30, 2025, Vertical Aerospace had £62 million / $85 million in cash and cash equivalents[54] - After a July 2025 fundraise of £52 million / $69 million (gross proceeds), the company's cash position was £104 million / $137 million as of August 5, 2025[54] - Post-July fundraise, Vertical is funded through to the middle of 2026[54] Order Book - Vertical Aerospace has pre-orders for up to 200 aircraft[40] - Avolon has placed orders for at least 100 aircraft and up to 250 aircraft[40] - Other partners have placed orders for up to 500 aircraft, up to 100 aircraft, up to 100 aircraft, up to 50 aircraft, and up to 50 aircraft[40]

Core Viewpoint - The executive order signed by President Trump on June 6, 2025, is expected to significantly boost the eVTOL industry by reinforcing the U.S. leadership in drone technology and integrating eVTOL pilot training into national strategy, leading to increased investment interest in the air mobility sector [1] Group 1: Archer Aviation - Archer Aviation's commercial progress is accelerating, with its Midnight eVTOL model entering a new phase of manned flight testing, demonstrating seamless transitions between vertical and conventional takeoff and landing, laying the technical foundation for commercial operations in 2026 [3] - The company has made substantial progress in its collaboration with the FAA for airworthiness certification and is building a complete industry chain with strategic alliances with United Airlines and Stellantis NV, which is expected to simplify regulatory approval processes for eVTOL commercialization [3] - Following the executive order, Archer completed an $850 million financing round, continuing the momentum from an earlier $300 million investment led by BlackRock, enhancing its capital reserves [3] Group 2: Market Impact - Archer's partnership with United Airlines to develop a New York air taxi network and its designation as the official air mobility service provider for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics further strengthen market confidence in its commercialization capabilities [3] - The positive policy environment has also benefited the broader eVTOL sector, with Joby Aviation's stock rising 16.3% and Vertical Aerospace's stock increasing by 7.2% during the same period [4] - Joby Aviation is advancing its all-electric air taxi project with support from the new policy, while its ongoing FAA certification and global regulatory cooperation network are paving the way for international expansion [4] - Vertical Aerospace is developing a hybrid version of its flagship VX4 model to address high-value applications in defense logistics and medical rescue, potentially overcoming the limitations of current pure electric eVTOLs in specialized fields [4]

Group 1 - Hedge fund manager Jason Mudrick is backing Vertical Aerospace, a UK startup developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, after successfully betting on meme stocks [1][2] - Mudrick's fund converted $130 million in debt to equity, removed founder Stephen Fitzpatrick, and plans to launch the flagship model VX4 by 2028, which can carry six passengers for short, quiet flights at prices similar to Uber [1][2] - Vertical Aerospace faces intense competition, with US rivals Archer Aviation, Beta Technologies, and Joby Aviation raising over $1.4 billion in the past year, while Vertical raised only $90 million in January [1] Group 2 - Vertical Aerospace is focusing on a straightforward business model of selling aircraft and generating ongoing revenue through maintenance services and battery replacement contracts, differing from competitors like Joby that operate their own fleets [2] - The company is tasked with raising $1 billion for certification, with CEO Stuart Simpson stating that current funds can support short-term operations but new investment is needed soon [2] - Despite skepticism regarding public acceptance and air traffic management issues, Mudrick remains optimistic about the company's prospects [2]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net cash used in operating activities for Q1 2025 was approximately $30 million, with guidance for the year unchanged at approximately $110 to $125 million [42][48] - The company closed the quarter with approximately $90 million in cash and cash equivalents [43] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The hybrid aircraft program represents a significant market opportunity, with a range of over 1,000 miles, targeting defense and commercial operations [6][22] - The battery systems are expected to generate a 50/50 revenue split between aircraft and battery sales by the 2030s, with a gross margin of over 40% for batteries [23][80] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to serve the full global market by certifying to the highest aviation standards, with ongoing discussions for certification in the US, Middle East, and Asia [87][88] - The hybrid aircraft's capabilities are expected to open up new opportunities in regional air mobility, with a payload capability of over 1,100 kilograms [70] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company launched its Flight Path 2030 business strategy, aiming to lead the eVTOL sector by the end of the decade with a clear roadmap and certification timetable [7][8] - Partnerships with Honeywell for flight controls and aircraft management systems are expected to enhance production efficiency and safety [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving certification goals by 2028, with significant progress in flight testing and regulatory approvals [41][44] - The company emphasized the importance of safety and compliance with rigorous certification standards, which are seen as critical to market acceptance [86][99] Other Important Information - The company announced the addition of three new directors to strengthen governance and strategic leadership [21] - The hybrid powertrain will be integrated into the existing airframe, with flight testing planned for Q2 2026 [60] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact on cash spend and cash burn due to hybrid announcement - Management indicated that the development of the hybrid powertrain was already included in previous cash spend projections, with no change to guidance for the year [47][48] Question: Certification requirements for hybrid VTOL - The hybrid product will be certified as a separate aircraft, likely around the same time as the electric VX4, with a full-scale piloted hybrid aircraft expected to fly in Q2 next year [52][53] Question: Integration of hybrid powertrain into existing airframes - The hybrid powertrain will be integrated into an existing airframe currently under construction, with initial flights as an all-electric aircraft [59][60] Question: Expectations for wing-borne testing - Wing-borne testing is expected to begin in Q2 2025, marking a significant milestone for the company [68] Question: Commercial opportunities with hybrid propulsion - The hybrid aircraft is expected to expand capabilities into regional air mobility, with potential interest from airlines for short regional flights [70] Question: Battery business model and revenue generation timeline - The battery business is expected to follow a razor-razor blade model, with significant revenue from battery sales anticipated within a few years after launch [80][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net cash used in operating activities for Q1 2025 was approximately $30 million, with guidance for the year unchanged at approximately $110 million to $125 million [43][50] - The company closed the quarter with approximately $90 million in cash and cash equivalents [44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The hybrid aircraft program was announced, which has a range of over a thousand miles and opens up additional market opportunities in defense and commercial operations [6][22] - The battery systems are expected to generate a 50/50 revenue split with aircraft sales by the 2030s, with a gross margin of over 40% for batteries [23][80] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to serve the full global market by certifying to the highest aviation standards, with ongoing discussions for potential customers in various sectors [7][89] - The hybrid powertrain will allow for expansion into regional air mobility, with capabilities for airlines to use the aircraft for short regional flights [70] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company launched its Flight Path 2030 business strategy, aiming to lead the eVTOL sector by the end of the decade with a clear roadmap and certification timetable [7][8] - Partnerships with Honeywell have been formalized to enhance flight controls and aircraft management systems, valued at approximately $1 billion over the next ten years [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving certification goals by 2028 and highlighted the importance of safety in their aircraft design [85][99] - The company is excited about the upcoming piloted wing-borne flight tests, which are expected to begin in Q2 2025, marking a significant milestone [68][107] Other Important Information - The company has appointed three new directors to strengthen governance and strategic leadership [21] - The hybrid aircraft will be integrated into existing airframes, with testing planned for Q2 2026 [60][61] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the impact on cash spend and cash burn going forward given the hybrid announcement? - Management stated that the development of the hybrid powertrain was already included in previous cash spend guidance, with no changes to the projected cash spend for the year [49][50] Question: Is the hybrid product a supplemental type certification or a new certification with EASA? - The hybrid product will be certified as a separate aircraft, likely around the same time as the electric VX4, with a full-scale piloted hybrid aircraft expected to fly in Q2 next year [52][53] Question: Will the hybrid powertrain be integrated into existing airframes for testing? - The hybrid will be integrated into an existing airframe that is currently under construction, with plans to retrofit the hybrid powertrain after initial all-electric flights [60][61] Question: How does the introduction of a hybrid electric propulsion system expand capabilities? - The hybrid aircraft will have a range of over a thousand miles and a payload capability of over 1,100 kilograms, allowing for expanded opportunities in defense and regional air mobility [70][71] Question: What is the business model for the battery systems? - The battery business is expected to follow a razor-razor blade model, with significant margins and recurring revenue from battery sales alongside airframe sales [80][81]