In a historic achievement, Beta Technologies’ Alia CX300 has become the first electric aircraft to fly with passengers on board.
Earlier this month, the aircraft completed a successful journey from East Hampton to New York’s JFK Airport, covering a distance of around 130 km (70 nautical miles) in just 35 minutes with 4 passengers on board.
Flight Cost Under ₹700
The most surprising part of the journey was the cost. Charging and flying the electric plane cost just $8, which is roughly ₹694.
In comparison, a helicopter covering the same route would cost about ₹13,885 in fuel alone.
Since the electric plane doesn’t use a loud engine or propeller, passengers enjoyed a quieter and more comfortable experience, with easy conversation during the flight.
What the Company Says
Kyle Clark, CEO and founder of Beta Technologies, shared:
“This is a 100% electric airplane that flew with passengers from East Hampton to JFK. It’s the first of its kind for the New York Port Authority and the city. The 70 nautical miles were covered in 35 minutes, and it only cost us $8 in energy.”
While this does not include the cost of the pilot or aircraft, the trip was still very economical.
The company believes the comfort and low cost of the Alia CX300 could help make electric air travel more popular in the future.
Company Background and Certification Status
Founded in 2017 in Vermont, Beta Technologies has been working on two electric aircraft:
CX300 – a conventional takeoff and landing plane
Alia 250 eVTOL – an electric vertical takeoff and landing model
The company has also raised $318 million in funding to scale up production, certification, and commercial use.
It hopes to get FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) certification by the end of 2025.
The CX300 can fly up to 250 nautical miles (about 463 km) on a single charge, making it ideal for short intercity trips.
Competition in the Electric Air Taxi Market
Beta Technologies isn’t alone in the race. In fact, Archer Aviation was recently named the official air taxi partner for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
This means visitors attending LA 2028 may be able to avoid traffic by flying in electric taxis.
Although Archer hasn’t yet received FAA approval either, the company plans to start operations by 2026 in the Los Angeles area.
Electric air travel is becoming a real possibility, and Beta’s successful test flight shows it may not be long before flying becomes greener, quieter, and more affordable for everyone.
