Vertical agrees pre-delivery payments, slots with American Airlines

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Vertical Aerospace has confirmed delivery slots and the commitment to associated pre-delivery payments with American Airlines. The US airline has reserved delivery slots for the first 50 VX4 aircraft out of its initial conditional pre-order of up to 250 aircraft, with an option for an additional 100, announced in June 2021. 

The commitment to pay pre-delivery payments and confirmation of slot reservations for the first 50 aircraft is said to be “the first of its kind for a major airline in the eVTOL industry”.

Stephen Fitzpatrick, founder & CEO, Vertical said “We are delighted to have reached this major milestone with American Airlines on our eVTOL partnership. Together, we are making zero-emissions flight a reality for passengers travelling all over the world. We look forward to continuing our work with American and seeing the first red, white and blue VX4 come off the production line.”

The firms will build upon their existing joint working group to collaborate on a framework to explore the future of AAM and prepare for the VX4’s entry into service.

American Airlines, chief financial officer, Derek Kerr said: “Our partnership with Vertical is a great example of progress in our commitment to reducing carbon emissions throughout our airline and the industry. We have made great strides in simplifying our fleet with newer and more fuel-efficient aircraft, and are proud to take part in another step toward the development of advanced air mobility.”

The announcement follows recent news of a further 50 conditional pre-orders of the VX4 from Flying Group, establishing Molicel as its battery partner, and agreeing to concurrent certification with EASA and the UK’s CAA.