Flying taxis are set to revolutionize travel, making zero-emission, quiet, low-cost short-haul journeys a reality, and Britain can lead the way, says Dómhnal Slattery

Britain once defined the future of flight, leading most of the major advances in aviation. The Spitfire, the Mosquito, the Comet and Concorde were not just machines, but symbols of ingenuity and national pride, proof that Britain could lead the world in engineering. Today, as aviation stands on the verge of the next big step-change, the UK faces a similar choice: lead again, or watch others seize the initiative.

Next generation aviation technology, including electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft – so-called “flying taxis” – are set to revolutionize travel, making zero-emission, quiet, low-cost short-haul journeys a reality.

Last week, the company which I chair, Vertical Aerospace, has had the opportunity to be part of the Chancellor’s delegation to the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, showcasing to the world how innovative UK companies can be.

Huge opportunities for collaboration and growth with the Gulf region were on show. But now back home, the Government must focus relentlessly on creating the conditions for our most innovative businesses to grow and export.

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