Electric Aircraft Pioneer, Vertical Aerospace, Welcomes Former Aviation Safety Chief to Board
Vertical Aerospace has proudly announced the appointment of Patrick Ky, the esteemed former executive director of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), to its board of directors. The appointment, effective from September 1, 2025, significantly bolsters the regulatory expertise of the UK-based company as it diligently works towards the certification of its innovative VX4 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
During his tenure at EASA from 2013 to 2023, Ky spearheaded the development of the world’s first comprehensive regulatory framework for eVTOL aircraft. His leadership was instrumental in establishing safety standards for next-generation aircraft, including the Boeing 777X and Airbus A321XLR. Moreover, he successfully managed the safe return to service of the Boeing 737 MAX after its global grounding.
“Patrick Ky is one of the most respected voices in aviation regulation and safety worldwide,” expressed Domhnal Slattery, Vertical Aerospace’s chairman. The company is ambitiously targeting the certification of its four-passenger VX4 aircraft by 2028 with both UK and European authorities. They have already received approximately 1,500 pre-orders from high-profile customers including American Airlines, Japan Airlines, and Bristow Helicopter services.
Source: Business Wire