Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
On November 7, 2023, BETA Technologies' Alia eVTOL aircraft commenced its inaugural test flight at Eglin Air Force Base.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
The test aimed to evaluate the aircraft's battery efficiency across a 68-nautical-mile flight to Tyndall AFB and back.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
Alia's recharge, using the Defense Department's unique charging station, took approximately one hour.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
This operation mirrored military 'hot-pitting' but with a groundbreaking twist: substituting fuel with electricity.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
2nd Lt. Maria Reynoso commented on the test's significance for military aviation, emphasizing its potential.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
Infrared data from the flight, collected by the 782nd Test Squadron, is crucial for comparing electric and conventional aircraft.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
Josh Bohannon, senior electronics engineer, focused on analyzing the electric aircraft's IR signature.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
Data from Alia's flight contributes to AFWERX's broader electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) program.
Karmactive Staff
Photo Source: Beta Technology
The test underlines a strategic shift towards sustainable technologies in military aviation.
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