Some planes don’t need a runway to lift off! Vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) planes launch straight up, like helicopters. Check out 10 cool planes that can launch vertically and land almost anywhere and show just how innovative aviation tech has become over the years.

Lockheed Martin F-35B

Designed to handle tricky terrains and tight spaces, the F-35B can launch without a long runway, which makes it perfect for combat zones. This combat plane impresses with its vertical takeoff ability and makes it key for the U.S. Army. No wonder it’s called a game-changer.

Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey

Famous for its unique tilt rotor design, this plane combines the perks of a helicopter and a plane. It lifts off like a chopper and switches to airplane mode mid-air, which allows quick and flexible landings. Service missions often rely on their dual-mode capabilities.

Harrier Jump Jet

Often called the “Jump Jet,” the Harrier is legendary for its vertical takeoff skills. First seen in combat during the 1982 Falklands Conflict, it showed impressive flexibility. It was a perfect fit for short runways. Today, it’s still a favorite among aviation fans.

Boeing X-32B

The X-32B prototype wowed the aviation world with VTOL capabilities and showcased what future combat aircraft could achieve. Though it didn’t become the top choice, its design remains a solid example of VTOL potential, and proven innovation continues to push boundaries.

Dassault Mirage IIIV

A French VTOL prototype, it was designed to lift off vertically and demonstrated France’s push for innovation in aviation. Even though it never reached mass production, it expanded VTOL potential in Europe—a noteworthy example of early vertical lift experimentation.

McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II

Building on the Harrier’s legacy, the AV-8B Harrier II offers enhanced VTOL performance. It’s important for missions needing quick takeoffs and landings, especially in combat zones. The U.S. Marines use it for its agility, which makes it a true asset in demanding operations.

Lockheed XV-4 Hummingbird

Although it didn’t reach mass production, its design inspired future VTOL innovations. The Hummingbird served as a testbed for VTOL possibilities, pushing boundaries during the 1960s. Lockheed’s early exploration of vertical takeoff paved the way for many aircraft.

Yakovlev Yak-38

This VTOL combat supported Soviet naval missions and enabled deployments from small aircraft carriers, and became a symbol of Cold conflict-era advances in its capabilities. Widely regarded as the “Forger,” the Soviet Yak-38 could take off vertically.

Hawker Siddeley XV-6A Kestrel

An attestation to Britain’s forward-thinking approach to aviation, the British project brought the concept of vertical flight closer to reality. Though limited in production, it offered valuable insights that later contributed to the Harrier’s design.

Hawker Siddeley P.1127

The P.1127 is where it all began for VTOL jets. Developed by Hawker Siddeley, this aircraft set the stage for the Harrier’s success. It proved vertical takeoffs were possible and inspired a new era of aviation design that could handle more than just standard runway launches.