Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

The UK government has pledged to back industry stakeholders in facilitating the launch of passenger-carrying, piloted eVTOL air services in 2026, with autonomous flights to be trialed by 2030. These ambitions are spelled out in the UK Future of Flight Action Plan, published by the Department for Transport (DfT) on March 18.
The <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66018a4fa6c0f7bb15ef920a/future-flight-action-plan.pdf">document&nbsp;also envisages</a> a demonstration of beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) uncrewed aircraft systems in non-segregated airspace this year. The UK government wants to see BVLOS operations expanded through 2027, when it says they should be “routine in integrated airspace at scale.”
In the Future of Flight, the DfT issues pathways for expediting both UAS and eVTOL operations between now and the end of the decade. It tasks the country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) with supporting the implementation of strategic objectives involving operational capabilities, infrastructure, regulations, and nurturing the nascent business sector.
Aviation minister Anthony Browne announced the publication of the document during a visit to Bristol-based eVTOL aircraft developer Vertical Aerospace. A statement of intent was signed by Duncan Walker, CEO of vertiport developer Skyports and co-chair of the Future of Flight Industry Group, which also includes air traffic management service provider NATS and aerospace industry groups ADS, the British Business &amp; General Aviation Association, and the Regional &amp; Business Airport Association as well as private companies such as Joby and helicopter operator Bristow.
The UK is set to have a general election before the end of 2024, with the ruling Conservative Party facing double-digit deficits in polling. The main Labour Party opposition has, broadly speaking, expressed support for supporting high-tech industry like advanced air mobility, especially on the basis of their contribution to decarbonizing the economy.
Since leaving the European Union and EASA, the UK has been on the fringes of regulatory leadership for new eVTOL aircraft and UAS. However, the CAA has agreed to validate EASA type certifications.

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UK Government Issues Action Plan for eVTOL and UAS Operations

Strategy document published as the country awaits a general election this year

The Future of Flight Action Plans tasks the UK's Civil Aviation Authority with facilitating the expansion of advanced air mobility operations by 2030.