Shares of Vertical Aerospace Ltd (NYSE:EVTL) rose 3.1% on Wednesday, while Bristow Group Inc (NYSE:VTOL) advanced 3.3%, after the two companies unveiled plans for electric air taxi routes serving New York City that could sharply cut travel times in and out of Manhattan.
The proposal envisions linking hubs such as John F. Kennedy International Airport with Manhattan in a matter of minutes rather than hours by road, using Vertical’s upcoming commercial electric aircraft, Valo. The initiative is being developed in partnership with Skyports Infrastructure, drawing on Skyports’ Downtown Skyport facility in Manhattan as a key node.
Vertical Aerospace is currently presenting the Valo aircraft in New York as part of its U.S. tour, following its debut in London last December. Valo is designed to cover distances of up to 100 miles at speeds of up to 150 mph, operate with zero emissions, and is targeting regulatory certification in 2028.
“Exploring future eVTOL use cases in a market like New York allows us to apply operational experience to new, sustainable aviation concepts as the technology and regulatory environment continue to mature,” said Chris Bradshaw, President and CEO of Bristow Group Inc.
Separately, Bristow said it has signed a Pre-Delivery Payment agreement with Electra.aero for five EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft, securing the first delivery slot from the manufacturer. The deal converts Bristow’s earlier letter of intent into a binding agreement and includes options for up to 45 additional aircraft.
The companies outlined a range of potential applications for electric air travel in New York, including rapid airport transfers, transport to major events at venues such as MetLife Stadium, aerial sightseeing, weekend trips to destinations like East Hampton, cross-town connections, and emergency medical services.
Vertical’s Valo aircraft will be available for public viewing on January 23, 2026, at the Classic Car Club Manhattan.