Vertical take-off aircraft (1) has first (4) and second (17) lifting mechanism (eg helicopter-type rotors, jets, turboprops) arranged in tandem, either above or outboard of ends (2, 3). Lifting mechanisms (4, 17) are independently tiltable, in multiple directions, by hydraulic rams (11, 13, 14, 16, 24, 26, 27, 29) to manoeuvre aircraft (1). In particular first lifting mechanism (4) may be tilted in the opposite transverse direction to second lifting mechanism (17) so as to alter direction of flight. First lifting mechanism (4) may be tilted by further hydraulic rams so that its rotor lies in a vertical plane for forward flight of aircraft (1).