On November 7, 2023, the electric aircraft Alia, developed by BETA Technologies, embarked on a pivotal test flight at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. This mission aimed to assess battery efficiency and the logistics of consecutive flights for an electric aircraft. The Alia’s task was to cover a 68-nautical-mile journey to Tyndall AFB, return to Duke Field, and recharge. Notably, it utilized the Defense Department’s sole aircraft charging station, requiring about an hour for a full recharge. This trial mirrored military ‘hot-pitting’ operations, but with electricity substituting traditional fuel. It marked a significant milestone for Alia, also completing its first … Continue reading Eglin AFB Witnesses Essential Test of BETA Technologies’ Alia eVTOL Aircraft