Vertical Aerospace Partners with Monolith to Advance eVTOL Technology

Exciting Collaboration in Urban Air Mobility

Bristol-based electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) company, Vertical Aerospace, has formed a partnership with London’s software company, Monolith. This collaboration aims to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance Vertical’s aircraft development process. Vertical’s flagship aircraft, the VX4, is gaining attention as a key player in transforming urban air mobility.

A Vision for the Future of Urban Transport

Monolith has been named Vertical’s ‘AI for engineering’ partner, a role that highlights its contribution to the complex world of eVTOL aircraft development. Dr. Richard Ahlfeld, CEO and founder of Monolith, expressed confidence in Vertical’s VX4. He described it as “one of the most promising contributors” to the future of urban air travel.

He articulated the potential for AI to improve not only testing times but also the overall design process. “With Monolith, Vertical will model complex systems faster and accelerate test campaigns,’ he noted, emphasizing the need for swift learning about design performance while minimizing development time.

Recent Milestones in Aircraft Testing

In November 2024, Vertical Aerospace successfully conducted the inaugural untethered flight of its second aircraft. This achievement follows the completion of an initial piloted flight test program in September 2024. Currently, Vertical is focused on an extensive test campaign at its flight test center located in Kemble, Gloucestershire. The company hopes to attain eventual certification by 2028, which is pivotal for commercial operations.

However, Dr. Ahlfeld recognized the inherent challenges in eVTOL testing, stating, “Flight and ground tests for eVTOL are incredibly complex, expensive, and time-consuming.” This is where Monolith’s advanced capabilities can significantly benefit Vertical Aerospace.

Enhancing Engineering Precision with AI

David King, Chief Engineer at Vertical Aerospace, expressed enthusiasm about the integration of Monolith’s technological insights. He remarked that the partnership ‘enhances [their] engineering precision,’ which is crucial for reducing project timelines. The AI collaboration will allow Vertical to streamline its testing processes, enabling engineers to concentrate on areas that have the highest potential for impact.

One key area of focus in the partnership will be the testing and simulation of the VX4’s supporting pylon structures. Given the complex nature of these components, this focused approach is essential.

Learning from Past Challenges

The importance of continuous improvement is evident, especially after a previous testing incident with Vertical’s first aircraft. In August 2023, the test aircraft encountered a ground impact, causing structural failure in one of the pylon structures. This incident provided unexpected but valuable real-world data that will inform ongoing developments.

Monolith’s AI-driven ‘Next Test Recommender’ (NTR) algorithm will assist engineers at Vertical in generating a prioritized list of tests needed, ensuring a more efficient validation process. This strategic move aims to increase design space coverage and build a more robust testing plan.

Looking Toward Future Models

While the current focus is firmly on the VX4, Monolith foresees a broad application of its AI insights in future aircraft models. Vertical Aerospace has indicated that it could introduce significant upgrades, including the addition of two more passenger seats and enhanced range, potentially within two years post-certification. These upgrades could be achieved with relatively minor adjustments to the existing design and regulatory requirements, showcasing the adaptability of the VX4 platform.

The Experience Behind the Partnership

It’s worth noting that Monolith brings considerable experience to this collaboration. The company has previously worked with influential industry leaders such as Siemens, Honeywell, and the BMW Group. More recently, their projects involving Airbus and BAE Systems in the aerospace sector demonstrate a strong track record of success, further affirming their ability to innovate in complex engineering environments.

Key Takeaways: Future of eVTOL Development

This partnership between Vertical Aerospace and Monolith represents a critical step in advancing eVTOL technology. As both companies work together, the use of AI in engineering processes promises to streamline testing, improve design performance, and accelerate the journey of the VX4 to market.

With the goal of achieving certification by 2028, the insights and innovations brought by this collaboration could reshape the future of urban air transportation. As Vertical Aerospace aims for greater efficiency and refined engineering practices, the implications of this partnership extend beyond their current projects, paving the way for future developments in the eVTOL sector.