Beta Technologies has secured a deposit-backed order for its Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft from New Zealand Air Ambulance Service, the Vermont-based manufacturer announced on December 19. The aeromedical charter operator, which is part of Skyline Healthcare Group, plans to use Beta’s electric air taxi to shuttle patients across New Zealand beginning in 2028.

The deal covers the purchase of two Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft plus options for 10 more. New Zealand Air Ambulance Service (NZAAS) is Beta’s second customer in the island country after the flag-carrier airline Air New Zealand, which placed an order for up to 23 Alia CX300 conventional takeoff and landing models last year to use for cargo operations. 

“This innovative solution redefines air ambulance operations, allowing us to undertake inter-hospital transfers from hospital to hospital in a safe and carbon-neutral platform, which will increase rescue helicopter availability for pre-hospital missions and offer patient transfers at nearly half the cost of traditional rescue helicopters,” said Skyline Healthcare Group CEO Annabel Toogood. 

“As an organization we have always been future-focused, and introducing Beta’s cutting-edge eVTOL technology into the New Zealand Air Ambulance Service will complement our existing fleet of fixed-wing and jet aircraft.” 

By bringing eVTOL aircraft into the NZAAS fleet, Skyline hopes to “bridge the gap for rural and vulnerable communities, providing seamless access to essential care,” Toogood added.

Beta Technologies developed the Alia 250 eVTOL and Alia CX300 CTOL aircraft for passenger or cargo operations. Its launch customer, United Therapeutics, plans to use both versions of the aircraft to transport human organs. Last month, Beta announced an order from Louisiana-based aeromedical provider Metro Aviation for up to 20 eVTOL aircraft. 

​​“Alia is capable of diverse mission sets, and with its high reliability and uptime, it lends itself to urgent medical missions like New Zealand Air Ambulance Service,” said Beta sales lead Patrick Buckles. “Our biggest aim with this technology is to increase access and unlock new and critical routes. With its low operating costs, regional range, and runway independence, we are excited for Alia eVTOL to help NZAAS do just that throughout the North and South Islands.”