Vertical Aerospace (Vertical), a global aerospace and technology company that is pioneering zero emissions aviation, today announces a partnership with Babcock International (Babcock), the aerospace, defence and security company to explore new applications of for its VX4 eVTOL aircraft.
The VX4 has proven demand in the passenger transportation markets from established airline customers including Virgin Atlantic, aircraft lessors such as Avolon, and helicopter and tourism operators such as Bristow and Iberojet. With today’s announcement, Vertical and Babcock will set up a Joint Working Group (JWG) to explore how to use the VX4 in new applications such as aerial EMS and cargo transportation.
The VX4 has the potential to transform these types of operations and reduce their carbon impact at a lower overall cost.
The piloted zero operating emissions four-passenger VX4, is projected to be capable of travelling distances over 100 miles, achieving top speeds of over 200mph, while producing minimal noise and having a low cost per passenger mile.
Babcock has over thirty-five years of experience in EMS, performing thousands of missions every year globally, and is the largest single operator delivering helicopter emergency services (HEMS) in the UK. By reducing the medical response time, Babcock not only saves lives, but also significantly minimises the long-term effects of injuries. This will include reviewing how to use the VX4 in vital services such as attending accidents and providing emergency transport between hospitals.
The partnership will also see the two companies working on developing modular MRO capabilities to enable cost effective maintenance of the aircraft in both remote and challenging environments. The partnership will also see the two companies working on the development of modular MRO capabilities to maximise availability and enable cost effective maintenance of the VX4 in service. Leveraging Babcock’s experience in the defence industry, the partnership will also explore how the eVTOL concept may be expanded in the
future to support the armed forces with medium range logistics delivery and casualty evacuation services.
Stephen Fitzpatrick, Founder & CEO, Vertical Aerospace, said “Climate change is the greatest challenge of our time. As with all other areas, the emergency services and logistics sectors must respond and adapt. I am delighted that Vertical Aerospace will be able support Babcock, a trusted provider of emergency response services, in their efforts to decarbonise their operations.”
Phil Craig, Managing Director of UK Aviation at Babcock, added: “Partnering with Vertical Aerospace not only enables us to harness our extensive digital and data expertise across Babcock, but also our reputation as a trusted MRO provider with a highly skilled workforce. As a business, we’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint and this partnership is an exciting step into the world of electric aircrafts. Exploring VX4’s technological capabilities allows us to understand how it can be used to deliver critical care and logistical support in challenging environments with zero emissions.”
