Vertical Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding with AHQ Group and the Saudi National Industrial Development Centre to explore development of a long-term advanced air mobility ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.

The agreement aligns with Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s national programme to diversify its economy and strengthen advanced industrial capability, and establishes a framework to assess manufacturing localisation, commercial eVTOL operations and investment and incentive structures to support certification and long-term growth. Saudi Arabia is regarded as a significant emerging AAM market, with potential demand for more than 1,000 Valo aircraft.

AHQ Group will support evaluation of the industrial and commercial structures required to establish a scalable ecosystem in the Kingdom, while NIDC will assess pathways for localisation and high-value manufacturing.

The Valo electric aircraft is designed to fly up to 160 km at speeds of 240 km/h with zero operating emissions. Engineered for hot environments, it supports operations up to 50 degrees Celsius and is being certificated under UK CAA and EASA standards. A hybrid-electric variant is also in development.