The UK’s Aviation Minister has confirmed that £20 million ($25.8 million) will be invested into drone operations for emergency services and eVTOL services in the UK, paving the way for a regulatory pathway that could see eVTOLs in use from 2028.
“I want the UK to have the most advanced aviation technology ecosystem in the world,” said Aviation Minister, Mike Kane.
Kane added: “That means creating a nimble regulatory environment and a culture of innovation so everyone can benefit from cutting-edge transport while tackling emissions, traffic and potentially saving lives.”
Funding will be divided between the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), receiving £16.5 million ($21.3 million) in 2025 to 2026, to deliver a regulatory programme to enable drones to fly beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and progress toward routine use of eVTOLs in UK skies.
In addition, the Future Flight Challenge research project will also receive up to £5 million ($6.4 million) from the UK Department for Transport and the Innovate UK agency, to support industry to turn these new technologies into profitable business.
This injection cash from the UK government, comes weeks after Virgin Atlantic entered a partnership with California-based electric air taxi developer Joby Aviation, that will see the companies partner on the launch of Joby’s air taxi service in the UK.
With this new partnership, Joby will aim to offer short-range journeys across the UK, starting with regional and city connections from Virgin Atlantic’s hubs at Heathrow and Manchester Airport. Virgin Atlantic will also support Joby’s go-to-market efforts in the UK.