Beta Technologies, an aerospace manufacturer based in Vermont, recently completed the first test flight of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi in New York City. With its partner brand, Blade Air Mobility, the firm plans to have its air taxi in commercial use by 2026.
Blade Air Mobility currently provides short-haul helicopter rides for high-end clients looking to save time by avoiding traffic. In the next three years, the company plans to start using Beta’s eVTOL aircraft in New York, aiming to offer customers an efficient and environmentally friendly transportation option.
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Founded in 2017, Beta Technologies has raised over $800 million and employs around 300 people. The company has developed two versions of its ALIA-250 EVA eVTOL aircraft: one for cargo and one for passengers. The passenger version will accommodate six individuals, including the pilot, and will cost approximately $4 million. Both versions can travel at speeds of up to 170 mph.
The ALIA-250 EVA has an impressive range of 250 nautical miles and can recharge in as little as 50 minutes, making it a viable option for commercial use. As a fully electric aircraft, it produces only one-tenth the noise of a traditional helicopter, making it a much quieter and more comfortable experience for passengers.
The recent test flight took place at Westchester County Airport in White Plains, NY, and Beta already has multiple fully functioning ALIA-250 EVA prototypes, with several having completed journeys of over 200 miles. The success of these flights highlights the potential of electric aviation and the progress being made by Beta Technologies.
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As urban areas continue to grow and traffic congestion becomes a bigger issue, eVTOL air taxis could offer a solution that is both efficient and eco-friendly. The development of these aircraft could revolutionize transportation in the coming years, and Beta Technologies and Blade Air Mobility are at the forefront of this exciting industry.
