BETA Technologies has new approval from the FAA, the US air safety agency. The company can now take possible customers on flights in its electric ALIA A250 aircraft. These flights show people how the aircraft works. The approval is the first of its kind. FAA experts checked safety before giving their approval. The company can also fly in more places, but it must still follow limits.
The first flight under this approval took place on 20 October. The aircraft travelled 39 miles in 20 minutes. It left Plattsburgh International Airport in New York and flew to Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport in Vermont. It went straight up into the air. Then it flew forwards on its wings. At the end, it came straight down to land.
The aircraft uses electricity and can work with or without a runway. Its design allows space for up to five passengers or more than 1,200 pounds of goods. Possible uses include carrying people and goods, medical work and military work. However, the new approval only allows flights to show the aircraft to possible customers and other groups. BETA still needs full FAA approval before it can offer regular paid services.
