Read the latest news about Beta Technologies.

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<p>Beta Technologies’ Alia prototype has completed a 2,000-mile journey from Vermont to Eglin Air Force Base in the Florida Panhandle, where the U.S. Air Force’s 413th Squadron will use the electric fixed-wing airplane for hands-on experimentation and training. The delivery comes shortly after Beta’s installation of an <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-09-14/betas-electric-aircraft-and-charging-station-coming-eglin-air-force-base">electric aircraft charging station</a> at the base.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Alia aircraft landed at Duke Field on Eglin Air Force Base at 12:18 p.m. local time on Thursday, October 26, beginning a contracted deployment that is expected to last several months. During that time, Beta’s core flight test team will work with the USAF to experiment with possible use cases for the six-seat electric air taxi in defense operations, such as cargo resupply missions and personnel transport. Beta will also train USAF pilots and technicians on how to operate and maintain the aircraft.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During its 16-day journey down to Eglin, Beta’s Alia aircraft flew over 12 U.S. states, making about 20 stops along the way to recharge its batteries using several of its own multimodal charging stations. In addition to developing its electric aircraft, Beta is building a <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-09-13/new-beta-app-gives-access-growing-network-electric-vehicle-charging">network of charging stations</a> across the country. The company has chargers online at 13 locations across the eastern U.S., and work is underway to install them at another 55 locations along the East and Gulf Coasts.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The electric fixed-wing airplane, which Beta is developing alongside its Alia-250 eVTOL aircraft, is an experimental model that was permitted to fly cross-country under an FAA market survey certificate. Beta originally built the Alia prototype as a precursor to its eVTOL model before it&nbsp;<a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-13/beta-technologies-plans-certify-electric-ctol-airplane">decided to certify both</a> the conventional and eVTOL versions of its aircraft. The Alia prototype has made several cross-country flights over the past couple of years, including a recent <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-09-28/beta-technologies-flies-electric-aircraft-across-border-canada">trip to Canada</a>. Several Beta pilots—including the company’s founder and CEO, Kyle Clark—took turns piloting the prototype on the way down to Eglin.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The trek to Florida began on October 10, when the Alia prototype departed from Burlington International Airport (KBTV) in Vermont, where the company has its headquarters, and flew to Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport (KGFL) in Glens Falls, New York. Later that day, it flew to Rome, New York. Over the next couple of weeks, the aircraft made stops in Syracuse, New York; Pittsfield and Marshfield, Massachusetts; Bridgeport, Connecticut; White Plains, New York; Reading, Pennsylvania; Easton and Joint Base Andrews in Maryland; Stafford, Charlottesville, and Danville, Virginia; Raleigh, North Carolina; Camden, South Carolina; Augusta, and Macon, Georgia; and Dothan, Alabama.&nbsp;</p>
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            <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item">  <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/futureflight/import/BETA%20ALIA%20flies%20over%20DC.jpg" width="2200" height="1467" alt="The Alia prototype flies over Washington, D.C." title="The Alia prototype flew over Washington, D.C. on its way to Joint Base Andrews, on Oct. 18, 2023. (Photo: Beta Technologies)">

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            <div class="field field--name-field-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">The Alia prototype flew over Washington, D.C. on its way to Joint Base Andrews, on Oct. 18, 2023. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</div>
      
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<figcaption>The Alia prototype flew over Washington, D.C. on its way to Joint Base Andrews, on Oct. 18, 2023. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</figcaption>
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<p>Beta notched several milestones during the trip. The Alia prototype became the first all-electric aircraft to fly in Class B airspace around Boston and New York City, and it was the first to fly in the restricted flight zone over Washington, D.C., when it visited Joint Base Andrews. The company also commissioned the first electric aircraft charger in Massachusetts during its stop in Marshfield, and it broke ground on North Carolina’s first electric aircraft charger at Raleigh Executive Jetport.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Beta has been working with the USAF since 2020 through its Afwerx Agility Prime program, which aims to foster public-private collaboration on electric aviation technologies for both the commercial and defense markets. Through that program, Beta became the first eVTOL developer to receive <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-05-04/us-air-force-awards-airworthiness-approval-betas-alia-evtol-prototype">military airworthiness approval</a>, and Air Force pilots have already flown Beta's aircraft.</p>
<p>“For the past several years, Afwerx has provided critical input and support to the Beta programs,” Clark said in a statement. “Deploying Alia for experimentation and training at Duke Field is the natural next step in our partnership. We look forward to working hand-in-hand with the U.S. Air Force over the next few months as we...assess how the economic, sustainability, and energy independence benefits of electric aviation can serve our military.</p>
<p>“In addition to the milestone of delivering an asset to our partners, this mission has been an invaluable opportunity to fly our electric aircraft down the East Coast into the communities this technology, and our operators, will ultimately serve,” Clark added.</p>
<p>Beta intends to offer its zero-emissions aircraft for both commercial air taxi and cargo logistics applications. The company plans to have its Alia 250 eVTOL model and the conventional takeoff and landing CX300 version certified and in service by 2026 and 2025, respectively. It has provisional sales commitments from multiple prospective operators, including helicopter group Bristow and express freight distributor <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-17/ups-will-test-betas-electric-aircraft-uae-cargo-missions">UPS</a>.</p>
<p>While the company has said it expects the eVTOL aircraft to have a range of about 250 miles on a single charge, the fixed-wing prototype has already flown as far as 386 miles (336 nm), which according to Beta is the longest flight by any electric aircraft to date.</p>


Science & Technology Editor

Hanneke Weitering

Beta’s Electric Airplane Lands at Air Force Base in Florida

<p><span><span><span>Beta Technologies has opened a manufacturing facility in Burlington, Vermont, where it will build its electric aircraft. The company expects to have the capacity to assemble 300 aircraft each year in a 188,500-sq-ft facility that it says has been designed to operate with net zero carbon emissions.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>The factory, which was officially inaugurated today in the presence of local elected officials, is part of a 40-acre site at Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport, with space already allocated to expand production capacity at a later date. Beta is developing both the Alia 250 eVTOL model and the conventional takeoff and landing CX300 version, with target dates for type certification of 2026 and 2025 respectively. It has provisional sales commitments from multiple prospective operators, including <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-08-23/bristow-pilot-test-flies-betas-alia-electric-airplane">helicopter group Bristow</a> and express <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-17/ups-will-test-betas-electric-aircraft-uae-cargo-missions">freight distributor UPS</a>.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>The Beta team has been progressively preparing for manufacturing readiness by establishing a pilot production line for the systems it is producing in-house, including battery packs, electric motors, and inverters. It has been working with FAA officials to certify&nbsp;its quality management systems and manufacturing processes.</span></span></span></p>
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            <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item">  <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/futureflight/import/Screenshot%202023-10-02%20at%2015.36.32.png" width="1316" height="736" alt="Senator Bernie Sanders at the Beta Technologies factory in Vermont." title="U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders was one of several elected officials participating in the opening ceremony for he Beta Technologies electric aircraft factory in Vermont.">

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            <div class="field field--name-field-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders was one of several elected officials participating in the opening ceremony for he Beta Technologies electric aircraft factory in Vermont.</div>
      
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<figcaption>U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (D-Vermont) was one of several elected officials participating in the opening ceremony for the Beta Technologies electric aircraft factory in Burlington.</figcaption>
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<p><span><span><span>To date, Beta has conducted more than 500 piloted flights with full-scale prototypes, logging more than 10,000 flight hours with its own batteries and motors. Last week, it flew a <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-13/beta-technologies-plans-certify-electric-ctol-airplane">CX300 aircraft </a>from Vermont across the <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-09-28/beta-technologies-flies-electric-aircraft-across-border-canada">Canadian border to Montreal</a>, and it has previously conducted extensive multi-leg trips across the U.S. to evaluate both the aircraft’s performance and its planned network of electric charging stations.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>As part of the commitment to net zero objectives, the new production facility is equipped with 260 geothermal wells to provide energy for temperature control within the building, as well as nearly three acres of roof-mounted solar panels. A structural sub-base that supports concrete foundations is made from a glass aggregate consisting of 99 percent recycled glass and 1 percent binder, replacing nearly 100,000 cu ft of styrofoam insulation.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>At various stages of the assembly process, aircraft will move along a production line with floor-to-ceiling windows and a quarter-acre skylight providing natural light to complement adjustable electric lights at all times of the day. For Beta employees, there are common areas with large windows throughout the building.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Beta Technologies is working with a diverse group of industry partners to build its new aircraft. These include leading aviation suppliers such as avionics manufacturer Garmin and composite materials specialist Solvay. Advanced Integration Technology is Beta’s industrialization partner, while Sensata Technologies is contributing sensors and high-voltage electrical protection, and Volz Servos is providing actuators.</span></span></span></p>
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            <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item">  <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/futureflight/import/ALIA%20VTOL%20Hover.JPG" width="4488" height="2992" alt="Beta Technologies electric aircraft" title="Beta Technologies is developing both vertical and conventional takeoff and landing and conventional takeoff versions of its electric aircraft. (Image: Beta)">

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            <div class="field field--name-field-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Beta Technologies is developing both vertical and conventional takeoff and landing and conventional takeoff versions of its electric aircraft. (Image: Beta)</div>
      
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<figcaption>Beta Technologies is developing both vertical and conventional takeoff and landing and conventional takeoff versions of its electric aircraft. (Image: Beta)</figcaption>
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<p><span><span><span>By contrast with other leading eVTOL aircraft developers based in California, Beta is concentrating most of its activities in its home state of Vermont, with a maintenance and training hangar in South Burlington, pilot manufacturing facilities in Williston, and an advanced battery research center in St Albans. The company also has locations in nearby Plattsburgh, New York;&nbsp;Washington, D.C.;&nbsp;Montreal; Raleigh, North Carolina;&nbsp;and Springfield, Ohio. </span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>During an opening ceremony on October 2, Beta founder and CEO Kyle Clark praised local state and city officials for their commitment to decarbonization. He pointed out that when Beta’s electric aircraft recharge in Burlington they are able to do so using the 100 percent net zero carbon local power grid. The event also heard speeches by Vermont politicians, including U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, former Senator Patrick Leahy, and Governor Phil Scott.</span></span></span></p>


Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

Beta Opens Net Zero Carbon Electric Aircraft Factory in Vermont

<p>Vermont-based electric aircraft developer Beta Technologies flew its Alia prototype into Montréal on Wednesday. According to Beta, this was the first time an all-electric aircraft crossed an international border and the first time one landed in Montréal.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With Beta test pilot Chris Caputo at the helm and accompanied by Beta flight test engineer Emma Davis, the Alia prototype took off from the company’s flight testing center at Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG) in New York at 1:54 p.m. EDT. About 30 minutes and 64 miles (55 nm) later, it touched down at Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), where the company recently opened a&nbsp;<a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-06/beta-technologies-opens-rd-facility-montreal">research and development facility</a>. According to Beta, the Class B airport is in busy airspace and serves about 53,000 passengers per day.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>“It’s exciting to have this opportunity to fly our all-electric aircraft into one of the busiest airports in one of the top aerospace capitals of the world,” said Beta founder and CEO Kyle Clark. “Quebec’s focus on sustainability and carbon neutrality matches ours at Beta, and we are grateful for the support of our partners in the region, like ICAO, AéroMontréal, the airport, and the delegation. This flight represents another meaningful step toward creating a sustainable aviation future globally.”</p>
<p>Several leaders from the aerospace and transportation industries joined Beta at the Montréal airport to commemorate the Alia’s flight, including ICAO secretary general Juan Carlos Salazar, AeroMontréal president Melanie Lussier, Montréal Airports president and CEO Yves Beauchamp, and Quebec’s delegate for New England, Marie-Claude Francoeur.</p>
<p>“In its aerospace strategy, Quebec emphasizes revolutionary technologies that will meet the environmental requirements for the next generation of aircraft. Beta's project is fully in line with this strategy and, on a larger scale, with the objectives and priorities of our region's premiers and governors,” said Francoeur. “This collaboration between Quebec and Vermont is a perfect example of the technological breakthrough that will help us achieve our regional goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.”</p>
<p>Beta, which is headquartered in South Burlington, Vermont, is developing two versions of its six-seat electric air taxi: one with vertical lift capabilities and one that takes off and lands like a conventional airplane, or CTOL. The aircraft that flew to Montréal on Wednesday is in the CTOL configuration. That same aircraft has so far accrued more than 26,000 miles (42,000 kilometers) in flight testing over the past three years, including on some <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-12-19/beta-makes-second-cross-country-evtol-flight-charging-infrastructure">cross-country flights</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Beta originally developed the CTOL airplane as a technology demonstrator for its eVTOL aircraft, but the company recently decided it <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-13/beta-technologies-plans-certify-electric-ctol-airplane">would certify both versions</a> of the vehicle, not just the eVTOL. According to Beta, the two aircraft share 80 percent of their design elements, with the primary difference being the vertical lift propellers. The CTOL aircraft is expected to be certified and ready for commercial service in 2025, with certification and service entry of the eVTOL version following shortly thereafter.&nbsp;</p>


Beta Technologies Flies Electric Aircraft Across the Border to Canada

<p>Beta Technologies, a Vermont-based company developing electric aircraft along with <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-27/beta-installs-first-electric-aircraft-recharging-station-southeast-us">a network of charging stations</a>, is expanding its partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense to install an aircraft charger at Eglin Air Force Base in western Florida. Later this year, Beta will send its Alia aircraft to Eglin, where the Air Force will use it for “on-base experimentation” as part of its ongoing efforts to explore defense applications for electric aircraft such as Beta’s Alia.&nbsp;</p>
<p>According to Beta, the Level 3 DC fast charger it’s bringing to Eglin will be the first-ever aircraft charging station to be installed on a U.S. Air Force Base. Beta already has its aircraft chargers online at 13 locations across the eastern U.S., and development work is underway to install them at another 55 locations along the East and Gulf Coasts.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The charging station will be able to support Beta’s aircraft as well as other electric aircraft and ground vehicles. Beta says it designed the chargers to the standards outlined in the General Aviation Manufacturers Association’s (GAMA) recent white paper, “Interoperability of Electric Charging Infrastructure,” which most electric aircraft developers have agreed to follow.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Beta has been working with the U.S. Air Force since 2020 through its Afwerx Agility Prime program, which aims to foster public-private collaboration on the acceleration of electric aviation technologies for both the commercial and defense markets. Through that program, Beta became the first eVTOL developer to receive <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-05-04/us-air-force-awards-airworthiness-approval-betas-alia-evtol-prototype">military airworthiness approval</a>, and Air Force pilots have already had the chance to pilot Beta’s aircraft.&nbsp;</p>
<p>“The DoD, and specifically AFWERX’s Agility Prime team, have been invaluable partners to us for the past several years, offering deep insights that have helped us continue to progress our technology,” said Beta founder and CEO Kyle Clark. “The installation of this charger is an enabling step as the DOD looks to transition to a more sustainable fleet. We look forward to using it to charge our aircraft later this year during planned on-base experimentation with the Air Force at Duke Airfield.”</p>
<p>“Charging station installation is a critical step to unleash test and experimentation with the DoD to leverage emerging electric aviation technology as a capability for the warfighter,” said Maj Anthony Zartman, Agility Prime’s program manager and team lead. “Two charging test sites will be set up by the end of the calendar year, marking the first multimodal charging capabilities for the Air Force. Further, the charging stations will provide an opportunity to explore the utility of electric vehicle fleet modernization as well as base and flight line support equipment to improve energy use and reduce emissions.”</p>
<p>While Beta prepares to send its charger and aircraft to Eglin, rival eVTOL companies Joby and Archer are also planning to send their electric air taxis to Air Force bases. Joby has said it would deliver its first production-conforming aircraft <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-04-27/joby-wins-55-million-agility-prime-contract-extension-us-air-force">to Edwards Air Force Base</a> in Southern California by early 2024. Meanwhile, Archer has said it aims to <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-07-31/us-air-force-set-evaluate-archers-midnight-evtol-aircraft">deliver its Midnight eVTOL aircraft</a> to an unspecified Air Force base in the fourth quarter&nbsp;of 2023.</p>
<p>The Alia aircraft that Beta intends to deliver to Eglin will be its conventional airplane configuration, also known as a CTOL (conventional takeoff and landing) aircraft. While the company originally set out to develop an eVTOL aircraft, it recently decided <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-13/beta-technologies-plans-certify-electric-ctol-airplane">to certify a CTOL version</a> of the aircraft as well. Beta aims to have the six-seat aircraft certified and ready for commercial service in 2025.&nbsp;</p>


Beta’s Electric Aircraft and Charging Station Coming to Eglin Air Force Base

<p>Bristow has conducted its first flight test with Beta Technologies’ Alia aircraft, one of several new advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles that the helicopter operator intends to add to its worldwide fleet of rotorcraft. A senior pilot from Bristow took the Alia prototype out for a spin on August 22&nbsp;to conduct a “qualitative evaluation” of the six-seat air taxi, Beta announced today.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With Bristow’s AAM program manager Bryan Willows at the helm (accompanied by Beta test pilot Chris Caputo), the aircraft took off from Beta’s flight test center in Plattsburgh, New York at 10:30 a.m. local time and clocked about 55 minutes in the air. “During the flight, Willows completed a standard flight profile featuring stalls, slow flight, and takeoffs/landings,” a Beta spokesperson told <strong>AIN</strong> in an emailed statement.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This marks the first time that a commercial customer has flown the Alia, following earlier flight trials conducted by FAA, <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-03-14/us-air-force-pilots-take-controls-betas-alia-first-crewed-military-evtol">Air Force</a>, and <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-01-31/us-army-looks-enlist-betas-alia-evtol-flight-test-contract">Army</a> test pilots. According to Beta, Willows is the seventh non-Beta pilot to fly the aircraft. Willows, a former Marine Corps pilot, joined Bristow in 2019 as the manager of its powered-lift program before moving over to the AAM division in 2022.</p>
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            <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item">  <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/futureflight/import/Bristow%20Flight%20Test%2020230822_0031.JPG" width="2200" height="1081" alt="Beta Technologies test pilot Chris Caputo (left) and Bryan Willows of Bristow pose in front of Beta's Alia aircraft prototype." title="Beta Technologies test pilot Chris Caputo (left) and Bryan Willows of Bristow pose in front of Beta's Alia aircraft prototype. (Photo: Beta Technologies)">

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            <div class="field field--name-field-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Beta Technologies test pilot Chris Caputo (left) and Bryan Willows of Bristow pose in front of Beta's Alia aircraft prototype. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</div>
      
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<figcaption>Beta Technologies test pilot Chris Caputo (left) and Bryan Willows of Bristow pose in front of Beta's Alia aircraft prototype. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</figcaption>
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<p>Beta Technologies, which is headquartered in Vermont, is developing two iterations of its all-electric Alia air taxi: one with vertical-takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) capabilities, and another conventional-takeoff-and-landing (CTOL) model—aka an airplane. Bristow plans to operate both versions of the aircraft.</p>
<p>Until recently, Beta was planning to only certify its eVTOL aircraft, called the Alia-250, while flying a CTOL prototype strictly for testing purposes. In March, Beta announced it would certify the CTOL model, called the CX300, in addition to the eVTOL version. The company is now working <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2023-03-13/beta-technologies-plans-certify-electric-ctol-airplane">to certify the CX300</a> under the FAA’s Part 23 rules for small airplanes, while the Alia-250 will be certified under the new 21.17 (b) rules for powered lift aircraft. Beta aims to certify and begin delivering the CX300 to customers in 2025, with certification and first deliveries of the Alia-250 to follow in 2026.</p>
<p>Bristow operates a worldwide fleet of more than 240 rotorcraft and primarily serves customers in the oil and gas sector, although it also provides charter flights and search-and-rescue services. The company in recent years has been stepping up plans to electrify its fleet, placing orders and signing provisional sales agreements with multiple eVTOL manufacturers, including <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-07-18/bristow-plans-lilium-jet-evtol-purchase-part-wider-partnership">Lilium</a>, <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-09-22/bristow-expands-fleet-electrification-plan-orders-vertical-aerospace-evtols">Vertical Aerospace</a>, <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-08-26/helicopter-group-bristow-shifts-business-model-commitment-50-estol-aircraft">Electra.aero</a>, <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-09-23/bristow-doubles-down-fleet-electrification-another-evtol-order">Eve Air Mobility</a>, <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-12-17/bristow-evaluates-overairs-butterfly-evtol-advanced-air-mobility-plans">Overair</a>, and <a href="https://futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-07-12/bristow-commits-ordering-100-chaparral-vtol-freighters-elroy-air">Elroy Air</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In August 2022, Bristow placed a firm <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-08-09/bristow-orders-55-betas-alia-250-evtol-aircraft">order for five Beta Alia eVTOL</a> aircraft, with the option to purchase an additional 50 units. When Beta announced its plans to certify the conventional CX300 model, Bristow placed an additional deposit-backed order for 50 CX300s.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While Beta’s CTOL prototype has been flying all over the U.S., the company is also engaged in a flight test campaign with a second prototype—its first eVTOL aircraft. The newer prototype features four vertical lift propellers mounted on two beams that run perpendicular to the wing. Beta’s eVTOL prototype has conducted numerous hover tests since its first flight last year and is progressing toward its first transition flight, in which the aircraft will transition from vertical to horizontal flight.</p>


Bristow Pilot Test Flies Beta's Alia Electric Airplane

<p>Electric aviation company Beta Technologies, which has been developing an eVTOL aircraft since 2017, plans&nbsp;to certify a conventional-style&nbsp;version of its all-electric model, the company announced today. Called the CX300, the fixed-wing, conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL)&nbsp;aircraft will look similar to the company’s six-seat <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/aircraft-program/beta-evtol">Alia-250 eVTOL</a> aircraft, but it will take off and land like an airplane. It will not have the ability to take off and land vertically like an eVTOL.</p>
<p>Beta intends&nbsp;to develop and certify the CX300 alongside the Alia-250, with the CX300 being certified under the FAA’s Part 23 rules for small airplanes while the Alia-250 will be certified under the <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-09-22/evtol-aircraft-developers-remain-concerned-over-new-faa-operational">new 21.17 (b) rules</a> for powered lift aircraft. It aims to achieve type certification and begin delivering the aircraft to customers in 2025.</p>
<p>The Vermont-based company has already conducted extensive flight tests with a prototype conventional&nbsp;model. Beta has previously said it was using the conventional airplane&nbsp;prototype to gather data on the aircraft’s performance during wing-borne cruise flight, which is how eVTOL aircraft will spend about 98 percent of their time in the air. Beta has also built a second prototype in an eVTOL configuration, called the Alia-250, which has so far conducted multiple hover flight tests but has not been involved in any of Beta’s lauded cross-country flights.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In December, Beta’s conventional aircraft completed its <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-12-19/beta-makes-second-cross-country-evtol-flight-charging-infrastructure">second cross-country mission</a>, flying 762 nm from Plattsburgh, New York, to Louisville, Kentucky, and making seven stops to recharge along the way. Earlier last year, in&nbsp;May, the aircraft&nbsp;completed a multistage trip from upstate New York to Bentonville, Arkansas, and back, logging more than 2,400 nm. In addition to its two electric aircraft models, Beta is building out a network of 150 aircraft <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-09-13/new-beta-app-gives-access-growing-network-electric-vehicle-charging">charging stations</a> at airports across the U.S. to be used by its own vehicles as well as other electric aircraft.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Beta’s aircraft has also been <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-03-14/us-air-force-pilots-take-controls-betas-alia-first-crewed-military-evtol">flown by the U.S. Air Force</a> and <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-01-31/us-army-looks-enlist-betas-alia-evtol-flight-test-contract">Army test pilots</a> as part of the military’s efforts to assess potential military applications for eVTOL aircraft. And recently, an FAA pilot flew the aircraft for an evaluation. Between these flights and the cross-country missions, Beta’s CX300 prototype has already logged more than 22,000 miles (35,400 kilometers), achieving a range of up to 386 miles (621 kilometers) on a single charge.</p>
<p>“We have been flying our eCTOL prototype airport-to-airport for a few years now to drive technological advancements in propulsion and systems, and now we’re seeing that there is a clear market for this product in addition to our eVTOL aircraft,” said Beta founder and CEO Kyle Clark.&nbsp;</p>
<p>“Global operators are looking for practical solutions to help meet their sustainability commitments, and after seeing the cost and performance of this prototype, our customers are eager to integrate it into their fleet,” Clark added. “With its known certification and operational path, this aircraft represents an opportunity to get electric aviation into the market, and into the hands of our customers, as quickly as possible.”</p>
<p>Several new and existing Beta customers have already placed orders for the CX300. <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2020-12-15/united-therapeutics-digs-deep-back-longer-range-evtol-aircraft">United Therapeutics</a>, Beta’s first launch customer for the Alia-250 eVTOL aircraft, has expressed interest in using the CX300 to transport medical equipment and human organs, although the company has not disclosed exactly how many units it aims to purchase. Helicopter operator <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-08-09/bristow-orders-55-betas-alia-250-evtol-aircraft">Bristow</a>, which previously announced plans to purchase up to 55 of Beta’s Alia-250 eVTOLs, has placed an additional deposit-backed order for 50 CX300s, according to Beta. Air New Zealand has also declared its intent to order three CX300s from Beta, with an option for 20 more, as part of its <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-12-14/air-new-zealand-names-four-partners-nextgen-aircraft-program">Mission NextGen Aircraft</a> program.&nbsp;</p>
<p>“As a continuation of our original partnership with Beta on their Alia 250 eVTOL, the CX300 gives us additional capability to introduce electric and sustainable aviation to our customer base around the world. We see many opportunities to supply logistics and personnel transport with CX300 once the aircraft is certified,” said Dave Stepanek, Bristow's executive vice president and chief transformation officer.</p>


Beta Technologies Plans To Certify Electric CTOL Airplane

<p>While Beta Technologies works to build out its network of charging stations throughout the U.S., the company’s all-electric Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft has been flying across the country for a series of demonstration flights.</p>
<p>Most recently, the eVTOL developer sent its Alia aircraft on a five-day journey across the eastern half of the U.S. The 876-mile (762 nm) mission began on November 30 in Plattsburgh, New York—about 20 miles northwest of the company’s headquarters in Burlington, Vermont—and ended in Louisville, Kentucky.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Over the course of five days, with test pilots Lochie Ferrier and Nick Warren at the helm, the Alia made seven stops in four states. Ferrier told <strong>FutureFlight</strong> that the trip went “better than we could have ever hoped,” with no hiccups to report other than a one-day weather delay for snow in New York. “We’re continuing to make improvements to our aircraft and to our charging network that enables these cross-country trips to go really well.”</p>
<p>The aircraft arrived at its final destination, UPS’ Worldport at Louisville International Airport in Kentucky, on December 3. At the major UPS logistics hub, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg had a chance to check out the aircraft and speak with Beta CEO Kyle Clark. The Department of Transportation oversees the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), an agency whose approval will be necessary for Beta to begin selling its aircraft to customers like UPS.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In April 2021, <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-04-07/ups-commits-operating-betas-alia-evtol-aircraft-package-deliveries">UPS became Beta’s third customer</a> when it agreed to purchase up to 150 of the company’s Alia 250 aircraft. The express package delivery giant plans to use the eVTOL aircraft to transport smaller shipments that would otherwise require ground vehicles or other small feeder aircraft to reach their destinations. (Beta also holds orders from <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-04-13/blade-orders-20-beta-alia-aircraft-air-mobility-services">Blade Urban Air Mobility</a> and United Therapeutics, which plans to use the aircraft to transport human organs for transplant.)</p>
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            <div class="field field--name-field-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg sits inside Beta's Alia 250 prototype at the UPS Worldport in Louisville, Kentucky, in December 2022. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</div>
      
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<figcaption>U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg sits inside Beta's Alia 250 prototype at the UPS Worldport in Louisville, Kentucky, in December 2022. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</figcaption>
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<p>Initially designed for the transportation of medical products and cargo, Beta’s Alia 250 aircraft can carry 1,400 pounds of payload to a distance of up to 250 nm on a single charge, hence the aircraft’s name. However, while the company sees the Alia primarily serving cargo and logistics operations, it also plans to offer another configuration that can carry up to five passengers (plus one pilot). Beta says its eVTOL can fully recharge in just 50 minutes.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During the trip to Louisville, Beta said the cost to recharge the Alia aircraft came out to&nbsp;about $0.13 per mile, whereas the Cessna Caravan chase plane that accompanied the Alia cost $1.78 per mile to refuel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The recent cross-country trek was the second such journey for Beta’s Alia, which in late May completed <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-06-24/amazon-makes-second-investment-beta-following-alia-evtol-test-flight">a multistage trip</a> from upstate New York to Bentonville, Arkansas and back, logging more than 2,400 nm. For that trip, Ferrier and fellow test pilot Camron Guthrie took turns piloting the aircraft and made stops in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri to recharge its batteries using Beta’s own multimodal charging stations.</p>
<p>A Beta spokeswoman told <strong>FutureFlight</strong> that the company has so far built two prototype aircraft which both conduct routine test flights. Serial number one, the aircraft that completed both cross-country trips this year, is configured for conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) “so we can gather data on in-flight performance, since that’s where the aircraft will be spending more than 95 percent of its time in operations,” the spokeswoman said. The other aircraft, serial number two, is configured for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), and it completed its first successful hover flight earlier this year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>“It's pretty awesome to see an electric airplane out there on the road, flying in the real world in real airspace and real weather, flying real distances at relevant speeds, and doing that repeatedly,” Ferrier told <strong>FutureFlight</strong>. “I think is is very exciting for us as a company and then for electric aviation broadly to see that happening.”</p>
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<h2 class="heading"><strong>Building Beta’s Charging Infrastructure</strong></h2>
<p>While Beta is hard at work getting its eVTOL aircraft certified by the FAA, the company is also in the process of building out a widespread network of charging stations that can be used not only to charge its own Alia aircraft, but also to charge other types of electric aircraft and even ground vehicles. In addition to the Alia program and network of charging stations, Beta is also <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-09-15/cae-provide-pilot-and-mechanic-training-betas-alia-250-evtol">working with CAE</a> to develop pilot and maintenance technician training programs for its eVTOL aircraft.</p>
<p>“We think of ourselves as an aircraft ecosystem company,” Nathan Ward, who leads Beta's work on its charging network, said during a webinar hosted by the National Air Transportation Association in late October. “We don't envision ourselves and have no plans to be either a Part 135 or Part 121 [operator] or FBO. So we're really building an electric aircraft and then the supporting systems around it to make this new fuel source, electricity, work in a very well established industry in aviation.”</p>
<p>Beta plans to have a network of about 150 charging stations up and running by 2025, the same year that the company plans to have its aircraft certified and ready to begin commercial operations. So far the company has nine publicly accessible electric chargers online in four states, and at least 55 additional sites are currently in the process of permitting and construction.</p>
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            <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item">  <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/futureflight/import/beta%20charging%20station%20map.jpg" width="2200" height="1080" alt="This map of the U.S. shows where Beta Technologies has plans to build its charging network. Charging stations that are already up and running are shown in green." title="This map shows where Beta Technologies has plans to build its charging network. Charging stations that are already up and running are shown in green. (Image: Beta Technologies)">

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            <div class="field field--name-field-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">This map shows where Beta Technologies has plans to build its charging network. Charging stations that are already up and running are shown in green. (Image: Beta Technologies)</div>
      
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<figcaption>This map shows where Beta Technologies has plans to build its charging network. Charging stations that are already up and running are shown in green. (Image: Beta Technologies)</figcaption>
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<p>Beta’s charging stations will utilize a 350 kW&nbsp;DC fast charger, which is “not a whole lot different than something you'd see at a highway rest stop or maybe at a gas station today,” Ward explained. “It’s as powerful as they come for this type of charger … We're talking about charging a battery that's the size of three [Tesla] Model S's worth of battery in under an hour.”</p>
<p>Each charging station can support up to two chargers and connect to the aircraft via combined charging system (CCS) standard plugs with 50-foot-long cables. The chargers are conveniently located at the edge of the ramp for easy access. A rectifier unit takes AC power from the electrical grid and converts it to DC current. At some locations, electric road vehicles located groundside of the airport can also use the same charging stations as the electric aircraft, with the airside and groundside segments of the charger separated by the airport’s fence.&nbsp;</p>
<p>“Bringing a electric vehicle charger, especially a high-powered one, inside the security fence has its nuances, and we've been working through that,” Ward said. “We're at about 50 airports right now in some form of development with a bunch more coming,” he said, adding that Beta is actively initiating conversations “with as many airport partners as possible” to implement its vast network of charging infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>
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            <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item">  <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/futureflight/import/Charge%20Cubes_with%20ALIA.JPG" width="2200" height="1081" alt="Beta's Alia 250 prototype is pictured next to two of the company's Charge Cubes." title="Beta's Alia 250 prototype is pictured next to two of the company's Charge Cubes. (Photo: Beta Technologies)">

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            <div class="field field--name-field-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Beta's Alia 250 prototype is pictured next to two of the company's Charge Cubes. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</div>
      
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<figcaption>Beta's Alia 250 prototype is pictured next to two of the company's Charge Cubes. (Photo: Beta Technologies)</figcaption>
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<p>To install one of these new chargers, airports and FBOs are required to first complete an FAA 7460, “Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration” application, as well as a Section 163 airport layout plan review. Ward said this process can take anywhere from two to nine months, depending on the location. “Every airport district office who reviews 7460s is a little different,” he said. “We speak to the FAA regularly so they know what we're doing and that's the made the process more efficient.”</p>
<p>Once those plans are in place, it can take anywhere from 20 to 44 weeks to get the equipment required to build the charging stations, Ward explained, citing ongoing supply chain issues and the increasing demand for electronic equipment. “The long pole in the tent for sure is the long-lead equipment, and that's really the transformer and the switch gear,” Ward said. “If you're looking at being in a position to be ready when these next aircraft come into the marketplace, realistically speaking, you need to have solid plans in place.”</p>


Beta Makes Second Cross-Country eVTOL Flight as Charging Infrastructure Expands

<p><span><span><span>Beta Technologies has launched a mobile app that provides access to the electric vehicle charging stations it is installing across the U.S. The start-up, which is developing the Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft, says that the new Beta Charge facilities are be able to support other makes of electric aircraft and also electric road vehicles.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>In May, Beta used some of the initial 10 charging stations when its Alia prototype completed a <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-06-24/amazon-makes-second-investment-beta-following-alia-evtol-test-flight">1,400-mile multistage trip</a> from Plattsburgh Airport in upstate New York to Bentonville, Arkansas, with seven stops along the route in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. Earlier this year, when announcing a further $375 million in funding for the Alia program, the Vermont-based company said it had started the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-04-20/beta-secures-375-million-support-development-alia-250-evtol-aircraft-and">installation&nbsp;or permitting of 65 charging stations</a>, with &nbsp;“hundreds” more in the planning stage.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>The <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/beta-technologies/id1615477994">app</a> allows operators to locate the nearest charging station on their route and then initiate the charging process when on site. Its payment processing function stores details of transactions and charging history for each vehicle, and can also be used to redeem vouchers for recharging that Beta may issue to individual customers or as part of a network-wide promotion.</span></span></span></p>
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<p><span><span><span>“We created our chargers to increase accessibility, which is why they are multimodal in design,” said Beta in a media release. “Each charging station in our network...supports the ground electric vehicles of today as well as the electric vehicles of tomorrow—so they can support other electric aircraft, not just our own.”</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>The charging stations have radio frequency identification readers, each with a unique code that the charger reads to relay data to Beta's server. The server then pairs that code with a user account and authorizes the charging session.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>In August, helicopter operator Bristow became the latest prospective customer for the Alia 250, which Beta aims to certify&nbsp;and have ready to enter commercial service in 2025. The all-electric aircraft will operate with a pilot on board, carrying up to five passengers or 1,400 pounds of cargo on trips of up to 250 nm (460 km). Other operators planning to add the Alia to their fleet include express delivery giant UPS, private flight provider Blade, and medical logistics company United Therapeutics.</span></span></span></p>
<p>Several other electric aircraft developers, including <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-07-16/eve-and-energy-group-edp-will-develop-electrical-charging-infrastructure">Eve</a>, <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-10-12/abb-develop-megawatt-charging-points-lilium-jets">Lilium</a>, and <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-09-15/clay-lacy-teams-eviation-provide-electric-aircraft-recharging-stations">Eviation</a>, are also working on charging infrastructure as part of wider plans to ensure a complete ecosystem is in place for the launch of commercial operations.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


New Beta App Gives Access to Growing Network of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

<p>Helicopter operator Bristow is continuing to expand into the advanced air mobility (AAM) market with plans to acquire&nbsp;as many as 55 Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft from Beta Technologies. The company announced on August 9 that it has placed a firm order for five of Beta’s electrically powered aircraft with the option to purchase an additional 50 units. The announcement did not state whether a deposit has been paid or provide other details of the terms of the agreement.</p>
<p>“​This order firmly positions Bristow as an early adopter and leader in pragmatically developing AAM operations and ushering in a new era in vertical lift solutions,” said Bristow executive vice president and chief transformation officer Dave Stepanek.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Vermont-based Beta Technologies is developing the all-electric <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/aircraft-program/beta-evtol?model=alia">Alia 250 eVTOL</a> aircraft for civilian and military uses. It can carry six people, including a pilot, or up to 1,400 pounds (635 kg) of cargo across distances of up to 250 miles (400 km), flying at a top speed of about 170 mph (270 km/h). The aircraft’s propulsion system features four vertical lift propellers mounted on beams that run perpendicular to a 50-foot fixed wing. At the rear of the fuselage is a single pusher propeller.</p>
<p>“We designed Alia with reliability, efficiency, and the highest-value cargo in mind, all of which are central to the types of critical missions Bristow carries out on a global stage," said Kyle Clark, founder and CEO of Beta Technologies. "Over the past few months, we've made strides with our flight test program, proving the aircraft is capable of performing in conditions it will see in service.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>Beta plans to have its Alia 250 aircraft certified and ready to start commercial operations in 2025. The aircraft received <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-05-05/us-air-force-awards-airworthiness-approval-betas-alia-evtol-prototype">airworthiness approval</a> from the U.S. Air Force in May 2021, and Air Force pilots have already conducted some crewed <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-03-14/us-air-force-pilots-take-controls-betas-alia-first-crewed-military-evtol">demonstration flights</a> with an Alia prototype.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Other Beta customers include the Dublin-based <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-04-27/lessor-lci-places-deposits-125-betas-alia-250-evtol-aircraft">aircraft leasing group LCI</a>, which plans to add up to 125 Alia eVTOL aircraft to its portfolio, and New York-based <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-04-13/blade-orders-20-beta-alia-aircraft-air-mobility-services">Blade Urban Air Mobility</a>, which aims to add up to 20 of the aircraft to its passenger transportation services network. <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-04-07/ups-commits-operating-betas-alia-evtol-aircraft-package-deliveries">UPS</a> has also announced plans to buy up to 150 units for cargo delivery services, and the United Therapeutics medical technology group has committed to buying an unspecified number of the aircraft to use for the time-sensitive transportation of human organs for transplants.</p>
<p>Houston-based Bristow operates a worldwide fleet of more than 240 rotorcraft and provides a variety of aviation services. It has mainly served customers in the oil and gas sector, but also provides charter flights and search-and-rescue services. The company plans to use the Alia aircraft “to safely and reliably move passengers and time-sensitive cargo as part of the development of new regional mobility networks in the U.S. and other strategic locations,” Stepanek said.</p>
<p>This week, Bristow reported improved first quarter financial results with revenues reaching $301.7 million for the three months to June 30, compared with $287.4 million in the fourth quarter of its 2022 financial year. The group reported net income of $4 million in the latest quarter, after recording a $4.3 million loss in the quarter ending March 31.</p>
<p>In July, Bristow released its first sustainability report, which summarized its strategy to move into operations of new eVTOL and eSTOL aircraft. Last week, it completed the acquisition of British International Helicopter Services.</p>
<p>Beta Technologies is just the latest in a growing list of eVTOL developers with whom Bristow has made commitments to purchase new aircraft. Last month Bristow signed two non-binding agreements with San Francisco-based Elroy Air and the German eVTOL developer Lilium <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-07-12/bristow-commits-ordering-100-chaparral-vtol-freighters-elroy-air">to purchase 100 Chaparral</a> hybrid-electric VTOL air cargo vehicles and <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-07-18/bristow-plans-lilium-jet-evtol-purchase-part-wider-partnership">50 Lilium Jets</a>, respectively. Bristow has also previously pre-ordered up to <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-12-17/bristow-evaluates-overairs-butterfly-evtol-advanced-air-mobility-plans">50 of Overair’s Butterfly</a> eVTOL aircraft, up to <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-09-23/bristow-doubles-down-fleet-electrification-another-evtol-order">100 of Eve’s eVTOL</a> aircraft, and at least <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-09-22/bristow-expands-fleet-electrification-plan-orders-vertical-aerospace-evtols">25 Vertical Aerospace VX4 eVTOLS</a>.</p>


Bristow Orders Up to 55 of Beta’s Alia 250 eVTOL Aircraft

<p><span><span>Retail giant Amazon this week made a second investment of an undisclosed amount in eVTOL aircraft developer Beta Technologies. In May 2021, the company’s $2 billion Climate Pledge Fund contributed to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-04-20/beta-secures-375-million-support-development-alia-250-evtol-aircraft-and">private funding </a>round led by Fidelity Management &amp; Research Company.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>On June&nbsp;23, <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/aircraft-program/beta-evtol">Beta’s Alia 250</a> prototype aircraft conducted a test flight between two of Amazon’s Air Hub facilities, making the 55-mile journey from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport to Wilmington Air Park in Ohio. The flight was part of an ongoing series of sorties involving the Alia, which is intended for both passenger and cargo services. Over the past two weeks, it has made stops in cities including Springfield and the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, as well as the Louisville, Kentucky hub of express delivery group UPS.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Amazon has not committed to adding the eVTOL aircraft to its fleet but appears interested in the potential of a vehicle that could carry three cargo pallets in a cabin that could otherwise accommodate six people, including a pilot. The company says it is backing Beta with funding because it wants to help advance zero-emissions flights.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Amazon established its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-05-18/fidelity-and-amazon-back-beta-368-million-funding-round">Climate Pledge Fund</a>&nbsp;in 2019 to support the development of sustainable and decarbonizing technologies and services. The group has also invested in hydrogen propulsion pioneer ZeroAvia. </span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Amazon has faced strong criticism from environmental groups for its rising carbon footprint from the burgeoning home-delivery sector. The company is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and&nbsp;wants to power all its operations with renewable fuel by 2025. Beta aims to have the all-electric Alia certified and ready to start commercial operations in 2025.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>In late May, Beta completed a multistage trip with the Alia from Plattsburgh Airport in upstate New York to Bentonville,&nbsp;Arkansas. The aircraft (tail number N250UT) logged 1,403 miles in 11 hours and 44 minutes of flight time, making stops&nbsp;en route in&nbsp;Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. Test pilots Lochie Ferrier and Camron Guthrie recharged the Alia’s batteries four times during the week-long trip, using Beta’s own multimodal charging stations in four of the locations visited.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Beta has signed agreements covering provisional sales with express delivery company&nbsp;UPS, leasing group LCI, and private charter provider Blade Urban Air Mobility. The start-up says it has now raised&nbsp;$796 million, entirely from private backers.</span></span></p>


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