The Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, has given BETA Technologies a first-of-its-kind authorization to carry potential customers on demonstration flights in its electric ALIA A250. The decision followed a safety review by FAA experts. It also allows the company to operate across a wider geographic area, within applicable restrictions.
BETA completed its first flight under the authorization on October 20, covering 39 miles in 20 minutes. The aircraft took off vertically from Plattsburgh International Airport in New York before changing to forward flight supported by its wings. It then landed vertically at Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport in Vermont. This ability allows it to operate at locations with or without runway access.
The A250 can transport as many as five passengers or over 1,200 pounds of cargo. Potential uses include passenger travel, deliveries, medical services, and military operations. However, the new permission covers market-survey flights, which let the company demonstrate the aircraft to potential operators and other participants. It does not allow unrestricted commercial passenger service. BETA is continuing flight tests and must complete the FAA’s full certification process before starting routine commercial operations.
