Beta Technologies Alia

The Alia is the flagship electric vertical‑takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developed by Beta Technologies, a Colorado‑based startup founded in 2017. After a decade of research and several prototype flights, Beta completed the certification‑grade Alia in 2023, marking one of the first fully electric, five‑seat tilt‑rotor machines to receive FAA type certification. The aircraft is powered by two 1,000‑kilowatt electric motors that drive ducted rotors mounted on tilting wing tips, enabling a smooth transition from hover to forward flight. Its lithium‑ion battery packs deliver a range of up to 300 nautical miles at cruise speeds of 250 knots, while a rapid‑swap battery system allows a full recharge in under thirty minutes. Advanced flight‑control software provides autonomous takeoff, landing and obstacle avoidance, and the cabin features a quiet, zero‑emission environment with configurable seating for cargo or passengers.

Alia’s significance lies in proving that electric propulsion can scale beyond short‑range drones to practical regional transport, offering a zero‑emission alternative for air‑taxi services, emergency medical deliveries, and remote‑area logistics. Its entry into commercial service is expected to accelerate infrastructure development for electric aviation and inspire further investment in sustainable aircraft design.