London plans first electric flying taxis by 2028

London is preparing for a transport revolution as the city plans to launch its first electric flying taxis by 2028. This mobility aims to reduce long commutes, connect key destinations, and promote sustainable urban mobility.

UK-based Vertical Aerospace has announced its electric air taxi, the Valo aircraft, designed to carry up to six passengers efficiently.

Valo aircraft features

The company claims the aircraft requires minimal maintenance, is capable of multiple flights per day and offers a clean, quiet alternative to traditional transport.

“We’ve got a vehicle that can fly lots of times a day, can carry lots of passengers, needs very little maintenance, and is very efficient to operate,” Vertical Aerospace said.

The first public viewing of the full-scale prototype has been scheduled for December 10, 2025, at Canary Wharf. According to Vertical Aerospace Chief Executive Stuart Simpson Valo marks a new dawn in transport, connecting people in minutes, not hours.

The first commercial routes to be flown by Valo will connect the London airports, including Gatwick and Heathrow, to the city centre. 

Other intended destinations include Cambridge, Oxford and Bicester. Seven certification aircraft will be tested with the UK CAA and EASA before launch.

While such flights will be a premium service for the foreseeable future, the company expects costs to come down over time, which could, at least in theory, put it on par with rideshare services like Uber. 

The Valo aircraft is designed to fly up to 100 miles at speeds of 150mph, with a four-seat cabin, panoramic windows, space for six cabin and checked bags, and a cockpit divider for safety and privacy.