StoryRegulatory
BETA says it will certify a conventional take-off version of ALIA (CX300) first, ahead of the vertical-lift model
BETA said it would certify and build the CX300, a conventional take-off version of its ALIA that shares the eVTOL's airframe, batteries and motors, before the vertical-lift model. A fixed-wing plane has a clearer FAA path; BETA had applied for Part 23 certification and aimed to deliver to customers by 2025.
- CX300 shares airframe, batteries and motors with Alia eVTOL but uses conventional takeoff
- Fixed-wing aircraft has clearer FAA Part 23 certification pathway than vertical-takeoff variants
- Customer interest from Bristow, Air New Zealand and United Therapeutics
- Nearly 200,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in South Burlington, Vermont expected operational by summer