Vertical Aerospace, a global aerospace company focused on electric aviation, has signed a significant agreement with JetSetGo, one of India’s leading private aviation operators. The Memorandum of Understanding covers the intended purchase of 50 Valo aircraft and establishes a strategic collaboration to develop Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) services across India.
The partnership aims to create a comprehensive framework for introducing electric and hybrid-electric aircraft to the Indian market. Both companies will work together on developing route networks, operating models, and regulatory engagement strategies. The collaboration will also focus on the commercial rollout of these innovative aircraft, with JetSetGo leading market research and operational planning for metro and short-haul regional routes.
The Valo aircraft, designed by Vertical Aerospace, represents a significant advancement in aviation technology. The all-electric version can fly up to 160 kilometres at speeds of 240 kilometres per hour with zero operating emissions, while meeting airliner-level safety standards. Vertical is also developing a hybrid-electric variant that offers increased range and mission flexibility, making it particularly suitable for India’s diverse geographical and operational requirements.
JetSetGo is already conducting technical evaluations, demand modelling, and feasibility studies on select corridors. The company believes Valo’s design, especially the long-range hybrid-electric variant, aligns perfectly with its strategy to connect dense cities and underserved regional markets where ground transportation options are currently limited.
Kanika Tekriwal, founder and CEO of JetSetGo, emphasised the practical considerations behind the partnership. “From an operator’s standpoint, aircraft capability and certification timelines are decisive factors. We are seeing early indicators of demand on specific city pairs and intra-city corridors. The Valo platform, particularly the hybrid-electric configuration, fits the operating profiles we are analysing for India.”
Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. “India is a dynamic and rapidly growing market for Advanced Air Mobility. Working with an experienced operator like JetSetGo allows us to explore how Valo’s all-electric and hybrid-electric variant can unlock new routes and transport solutions across the country.”
Vertical Aerospace is targeting type certification for the Valo by 2028 under UK and European regulators, with global validations to follow. This timeline could enable early commercial rollout of AAM services in India, subject to local approvals. The partnership coincides with Indian regulators developing certification and infrastructure frameworks for advanced air mobility, positioning JetSetGo to incorporate these next-generation aircraft into its long-term fleet planning.
