Norway has signed its first formal agreement for electric aircraft demonstration flights, with Bristow Norway set to operate the ALIA CX300 from Beta Technologies starting in the third quarter of 2025.
The initial flights, which will carry only cargo, will operate between Stavanger and Bergen airports. The Stavanger route is scheduled to launch in late summer, followed by Bergen in autumn. The project aims to evaluate operational requirements and lay the groundwork for scaling up electric aviation by engaging airlines, manufacturers, suppliers, and energy sector stakeholders.
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“Avinor’s role is to facilitate the infrastructure at airports and make the airspace available for actors who wish to test various zero- and low-emission aircraft in an operational environment,” said Karianne Helland Strand, Executive Vice President for Sustainability, Concept, and Infrastructure Development at Avinor. “We seek more knowledge about what different technologies and aircraft require in terms of airport facilities and necessary energy supply needs.”
The ALIA CX300, a conventional take-off and landing (eCTOL) electric aircraft developed by Beta Technologies, was manufactured in Vermont, USA. It has received airworthiness certification from the U.S. Air Force and the FAA for visual and instrument flight rules, as well as day and night operations.
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Norwegian Minister of Transport Jon-Ivar Nygård highlighted the country’s commitment to zero-emission aviation. “With an aviation industry committed to reducing emissions, a decentralized network of airports, and a supplier industry specializing in battery-electric propulsion and hydrogen technology, we have a strong foundation for the early adoption of new technologies,” he said. Norway’s National Transport Plan 2025–2036 has allocated one billion kroner ($95 million) to support the transition to low-emission aviation.