BETA Technologies has kicked off its European tour with the introduction of its production-intent ALIA CTOL (conventional takeoff and landing) aircraft at Shannon Airport in Ireland.
Backed by Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI), the showcase marks the beginning of a continent-wide demonstration tour designed to highlight the aircraft’s performance, reliability, and readiness for real-world operations.
This event is seen as a significant milestone for BETA Technologies as the company brings its clean-sheet, electric-powered platform to the European market. The Ireland demonstration drew interest from government officials, aviation regulators, and advanced air mobility stakeholders, as the region positions itself for the rollout of sustainable, next-generation transportation solutions.
Kyle Clark, Founder and CEO of BETA Technologies, said, “This is more than just an arrival, it’s a springboard to bring the future of aviation to Europe. AAM, and our aircraft specifically, is practically purpose-built for the distributed geography and weather conditions of Ireland and the rest of Europe. With its spirit of innovation and growing leadership in future transportation solutions, we see Ireland as a strategic partner and gateway to the broader European aviation market.”
Russell Vickers, CEO of FMCI, said, “Partnering with BETA on these historic flights is a milestone moment for FMCI. It epitomizes our mission to support the future of air mobility. FMCI serves not just as a launchpad for Irish innovation, but as a landing pad for global pioneers. When companies like BETA come to Ireland, they help accelerate innovation at home, bringing new skills, technologies, and opportunities to our aviation ecosystem. These flights demonstrate real-world innovation, with Ireland acting as a proving ground for what comes next.”
The aircraft on display, tail number N214BT, is one of several units completed at BETA’s 200,000-square-foot final assembly facility in Vermont, USA. Designed with a focus on payload, range, and operational simplicity, the ALIA CTOL is capable of carrying up to five passengers or 1,250 pounds of cargo. It leverages a proprietary electric propulsion system developed entirely in-house by BETA, which enables a quiet flight profile, zero emissions, and significantly lower operating costs compared to traditional aircraft. The design prioritizes regional mission profiles and aligns with the infrastructure and operational needs of both emerging and established aviation markets.
Seán Canney TD, Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rails and Ports, commented, “It is a pleasure to be here today to welcome BETA Technologies to Ireland as they showcase the next generation of electric aviation. This is more than a demonstration — it’s a glimpse into a future of cleaner, quieter, and more efficient air transport. As Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rails and Ports, I fully support initiatives that help decarbonise our transport systems and position Ireland as a leader in sustainable mobility. I commend BETA on their vision and ambition, and I look forward to seeing the opportunities this technology will bring for industry and infrastructure across our regions.”
Declan Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive of the Irish Aviation Authority, added, “BETA and the ALIA CTOL aircraft represent the spirit of innovation and fast-paced product development happening in aviation. This challenges regulators to keep up, but I am happy to state Europe and specifically Ireland has the necessary safety regulations and certification framework and skills in place to test and bring hybrid and electric aircraft to the market.“
To support the adoption of electric aviation, BETA is also deploying a standardized charging network across strategic locations. FMCI has committed to installing several of BETA’s Charge Cubes at its facility near Shannon Airport, with activation expected in 2026. These chargers are built to be interoperable, supporting not only BETA’s aircraft but also other electric air taxi models and ground vehicles, enabling a truly integrated multimodal ecosystem.
Ireland is the first stop on a broader European tour that will include multiple countries, with each visit offering live flight demonstrations and engagement with local regulatory and commercial partners. Upon completing the tour, BETA will deliver N214BT to Bristow Norway, where it will participate in a Regulatory Sandbox program in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority and Avinor. The initiative will test and refine operational frameworks for electric aircraft in active airspace, accelerating the path toward certification and commercial service.
In parallel with its CTOL program, BETA is advancing development and certification of its ALIA VTOL variant and building comprehensive pilot and maintainer training programs. The company’s growing customer base includes leading global operators such as UPS, Air New Zealand, United Therapeutics, Blade, LCI, Helijet, Metro Aviation, the U.S. Department of Defense, and Bristow. These firm orders are said to reflect increasing confidence in BETA’s vertically integrated approach, which combines innovative aircraft design with scalable infrastructure and training to support safe and efficient AAM deployment worldwide.
