In a landmark moment for British aviation, the country’s first-ever flying taxi has successfully completed its first real-world journey, bringing the UK a step closer to launching commercial air taxi services by 2028.

The VX4, an electric aircraft developed by Bristol-based Vertical Aerospace, made aviation history by completing a cross-country flight from the Cotswolds in normal, unrestricted airspace—the first time such a journey has been completed in Europe outside of a controlled test environment.

A Glimpse of the Future

Designed to carry one pilot and four passengers, the VX4 can reach speeds of up to 150 miles per hour and travel 100 miles on a single charge. The flight was a major milestone for the UK’s ambitions to integrate electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into mainstream travel.

Government-Backed Innovation

The flight comes on the heels of a £20 million government investment announced last month to support the development of commercial drones and flying taxi services. The funding will help fast-track innovation through the Department for Transport (DfT), the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and a newly formed Regulatory Innovation Office that aims to cut bureaucratic delays and speed up adoption of new transport technologies.

A Pilot’s Dream

Simon Davies, Chief Test Pilot for Vertical Aerospace, described the maiden voyage as one of the highlights of his career.

“Flying over the Cotswolds was an unforgettable experience. The aircraft performed exactly as predicted—it’s not just capable and safe, it’s a joy to fly,” said Davies. “The VX4 is incredibly smooth and responsive, and the noise level in the cockpit is low and pleasant.”

Revolutionizing UK Travel

Experts suggest flying taxis like the VX4 could transform travel times and ease congestion. A journey from Brighton to Heathrow, for instance, could take just 20 minutes—a fraction of the time by car or train.

The UK is not alone in this air mobility race. Joby Aviation, a U.S.-based eVTOL company, recently announced a partnership with Virgin Atlantic to launch zero-emission short-hop flights across the UK. Their aircraft, also designed to carry four passengers and a pilot, can hit speeds of up to 200 mph, with Heathrow and Manchester Airport slated as early launch hubs.

What’s Next?

The success of the VX4’s maiden cross-country flight signals real progress in making urban air mobility a reality. With regulatory support and increasing investment, flying taxis could soon become a practical and sustainable alternative to traditional transport, reducing travel times and cutting emissions.

As Vertical Aerospace and others gear up for wider testing and eventual commercial launch, one thing is clear: the future of flight is not just coming—it’s already in the air.