Vertical Aerospace Addresses Archer Aviation Claims

LONDON & NEW YORK- Feb 24, 2026 –Vertical Aerospace (“Vertical” or “Company”) [NYSE:EVTL], a global aerospace and technology company that is pioneering electric aviation, today provided the following statement in response to a patent infringement complaint (Docket / Case Number : 2:26‑cv‑00149 ) filed by Archer Aviation in the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Texas on Feb. 23, 2026

Archer’s recent claims are without merit, and Vertical intends to defend those claims vigorously. Vertical has developed a robust aircraft design with a clear path to certification, underpinned by Vertical’s proprietary and market-leading technology and international IP portfolio. Archer’s claims are merely an attempt to distract from the challenges Archer is facing competing in the marketplace.

“Vertical’s aircraft architecture, proprietary technology stack and certification pathway have been independently developed over many years and are protected by a robust portfolio of intellectual property rights,” said Domhnal Slattery, Vertical Aerospace Chair. “Our focus remains firmly on execution and certification. That is where sustainable value is created – and that is where we are leading.”

About Vertical Aerospace

Vertical Aerospace is a global aerospace and technology company pioneering electric aviation. Vertical is creating a safer, cleaner, and quieter way to travel. Valo is a piloted, four-passenger, Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with zero operating emissions. Vertical is also developing a hybrid-electric variant, offering increased range and mission flexibility to meet the evolving needs of the advanced air mobility market.

Vertical combines partnerships with leading aerospace companies, including Honeywell, Syensqo and Aciturri, with its own proprietary battery and propeller technology to develop the world’s most advanced and safest eVTOL.

Vertical has c.1,500 pre-orders of Valo, with customers across four continents, including American Airlines, Avolon, Bristow, GOL and Japan Airlines. Certain customer obligations are expected to be fulfilled via third-party agreements. Headquartered in Bristol, UK, Vertical’s experienced leadership team comes from top-tier aerospace and automotive companies such as Rolls-Royce, Airbus, GM, and Leonardo. Together, they have previously certified and supported over 30 different civil and military aircraft and propulsion system.

Source: Archer