When it comes to getting from A to B, things have moved on. We’ve gone from horse to automobile. From canal to railway. From steamboat to speed boat. But what about a move from taxicab to taxiplane?

On paper, it’s a game changer. A journey that would usually take several hours, complete in just 30 minutes. An aircraft seating four passengers, plus one pilot. And a fast, quiet, emissions-free transport solution that can help mitigate the devasting effects of climate change.

The race is on to see who will be first to take to the skies.

Bristol-based Vertical Aerospace is a strong contender. With eight aerodynamic propellers helping the aircraft travel at speeds of up to 200mph, its craft can travel for distances of around 100 miles. 

In September this year, Vertical’s electric VX4 prototype aircraft completed its first airborne test flight, taking it one step closer to being ready for lift-off by 2025. With pre-orders from airlines including Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, and AirAsia, the only way is up.

However, hot on Vertical’s heels is US-based Joby Aviation. Its electric aircraft design is capable of flying distances of up to 150 miles, has super quiet acoustics, and (like Vertical Aerospace) uses a vertical take-off and landing system. 

Joby Aviation’s investors include Uber and the company has applied for both US and UK authorisation, from the Federal Aviation Administration and Civil Aviation Authority, respectively.

With taxi travel, it seems the sky’s the limit.