New Zealand tests zero-emission electric plane with 250 mile-range

Air New Zealand and US-based BETA Technologies have initiated a four-month technical demonstrator program in New Zealand to test the all-electric, zero-emission BETA ALIA CX300 cargo aircraft. The program involves flights starting from Hamilton and continuing between Wellington and Blenheim, including challenging routes across Cook Strait. These tests aim to collect operational and environmental data to assess the aircraft’s performance in real-world regional air travel conditions. The aircraft, designed for conventional take-off and landing, can fly up to approximately 398 kilometers (247 miles) and carry two crew members plus cargo, with recharging supported by mobile 65kW chargers enabling quick turnarounds. This collaborative effort includes Air New Zealand, BETA Technologies, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and airport partners, with pilots conducting flights under various conditions to gather data for global applications. The initiative also addresses regulatory challenges posed by emerging aviation technologies, with the CAA working to establish safe integration pathways. The aircraft will remain in New Zealand