Electric Aircraft Demonstration Highlights Ohio’s Role in Future of Flight
By Joe Frye
JobsOhio hosted a flight demonstration of BETA Technologies’ ALIA CTOL aircraft at The Ohio State University Airport last Thursday, Aug. 7, marking an advance for the state’s ambitions in advanced air mobility (AAM). The event featured prominent figures from government, aerospace, defense and industry sectors across Ohio, all brought together to underscore the benefits of BETA’s electric aircraft in terms of safety, efficiency, low cost and quiet performance.
Ohio’s aviation legacy was a highlighted theme. The state, known for the Wright brothers’ first flight and its military bases, is also home to the U.S.’ first National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE), which includes partners such as BETA Technologies, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Toray.
“Ohio has always been at the forefront of aviation, beginning with the Wright brothers’ first flight to the astronauts who have orbited the earth and landed on the moon,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “BETA showcasing its latest electric aircraft today demonstrates how Ohio is leading the way by empowering the future of flight through advanced air mobility.”
Also at the event, BETA’s chief innovation officer, Blain Newton, said, “ALIA and AAM can bring real value to Ohio, from faster and lower-cost medical and passenger transport to job growth and stronger regional connectivity.”
BETA Technologies manufactures its electric aircraft ALIA CTOL (fixed-wing) and ALIA VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing), along with supporting electric propulsion systems, flight controls and battery packs at a nearly 200,000-square-foot facility in Vermont. The company is also deploying a U.S. charging infrastructure network, with almost 50 chargers already online along the East, West and Gulf coasts. Its customer roster includes UPS, the U.S. Department of Defense and many others.
Read the full news release on JobsOhio’s website.