UK electric aviation company Vertical Aerospace [NYSE: EVTL] has significantly strengthened its flight test capabilities with the appointment of Paul Stone as a Test Pilot.
This strategic addition places Vertical among an exclusive group of eVTOL companies worldwide boasting two test pilots with proven experience in full-scale, piloted electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Stone’s arrival underscores Vertical’s commitment to rigorous testing and certification as it progresses towards commercializing its flagship VX4 aircraft.
Paul Stone: Extensive Flight Experience
Incoming pilot Stone brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. He boasts over 28 years of experience in experimental, development, certification, and production test flying. His impressive career includes 20 years with the Royal Navy, accumulating over 4,800 flight hours across more than 200 aircraft types.
Most recently, Stone served as Chief Test Pilot at Volocopter. Here he piloted both their concept demonstrator and the full-scale Volocity eVTOL prototype for three years. This direct experience with eVTOL aircraft is invaluable to Vertical as it navigates the complexities of flight testing and certification.
He now joins Vertical’s existing team of highly skilled test pilots. This includes Chief Test Pilot Simon Davies and test pilot Tim Eldridge. Combined, they represent a formidable force in the eVTOL sector.
Stone’s expertise extends beyond general flight testing. He possesses over 15 years of specialized experience with all marks of the Harrier. This includes pioneering research on Short/Vertical Take-Off and Landing (SVTOL/VTOL) digital flight control systems.
Experience in Vectored Thrust Aircraft
His contributions to the Vectored-thrust Aircraft Advanced Control (VAAC) Harrier and the Boeing X-32 Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) concept demonstrator highlight his deep understanding of advanced flight control systems.
Furthermore, Stone has collaborated on control law development for NASA and Boeing. He played a crucial role in refining the software that governs aircraft stability and maneuverability.
His extensive private defense sector flight test experience, including roles at BAE Systems as Typhoon Future Capability Director, Director of Flight Operations, and Chief Test Pilot for Combat Aircraft. This further cements his reputation as a leading aviation expert.
“I have been passionate about testing cutting-edge aircraft throughout my career. Vertical is at the leading edge of electric aviation,” Stone stated. “With the VX4’s progress and the team’s world-class expertise, I’m excited to be part of the journey to certify and commercialize the VX4.”
Vertical Aerospace CEO Perspective
Stuart Simpson, CEO at Vertical Aerospace, emphasized the significance of Stone’s appointment. “Paul joining Vertical underscores the incredible progress we’re making with our piloted flight test programme and sector-leading aircraft.”
“A test team with two eVTOL experienced pilots puts us in an elite group worldwide. I look forward to seeing Paul take to the skies in our full-scale prototype as we progress our piloted test programme. This sets our progress apart in the sector.”
Vertical’s recent achievements include the successful completion of piloted thrustborne testing for its VX4 prototype.
The company is now working closely with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to expand its flight envelope in preparation for wingborne flight, a milestone that Vertical believes would be a world-first for this type of aircraft.
Conclusion
This appointment follows Vertical’s recent FY24 earnings announcement. It was revealed that the assembly of the third full-scale VX4 prototype has commenced at GKN Aerospace’s Global Technology Centre.
This ongoing development and expansion of the VX4 program, now benefits from the addition experienced aviator Paul Stone. It further positions Vertical Aerospace as a leader in the rapidly evolving eVTOL industry.
The company’s dedication to rigorous testing, advanced technology, and experienced personnel is driving them towards their goal of revolutionizing urban air mobility.
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