At the Paris Air Show 2025, all eyes turned toward one aircraft — the ALIA CTOL from Beta Technologies. This sleek electric airplane, now under evaluation by Republic Airways, promises to make regional electric flight cleaner, quieter, and far cheaper than anything in the sky today.
The collaboration between Beta Technologies and Republic Airways marks a pivotal step toward sustainable aviation and a serious leap for electric conventional take-off and landing (eCTOL) technology.
🛫 What Exactly Is the ALIA CTOL?
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Electric Conventional Take-Off and Landing (eCTOL) |
| Manufacturer | Beta Technologies (Vermont, USA) |
| Capacity | 1 pilot + 5 passengers |
| Cargo Volume | 200 cubic feet |
| Payload | 1,250 lbs |
| Range | 336 nautical miles (~ 387 miles) |
| Top Speed | 153 knots (176 mph) |
| Charging Time | < 1 hour via Charge Cube |
| Emissions | Zero |
| Operating Cost | ≈ $18/hour |
The ALIA CTOL is more than an aircraft — it’s a proof of concept that electric aviation can be both eco-friendly and economically sustainable.
With its 336-mile range, the ALIA CTOL can handle the vast majority of regional routes currently served by noisy, fuel-burning turboprops.
⚙️ How Beta Technologies Built the ALIA CTOL
The aircraft’s H500A electric motor powers a five-blade propeller for maximum efficiency. A lightweight carbon-fiber structure keeps the ALIA CTOL agile, while a smart battery system ensures quick charging and extended cycle life.
Its charging solution — the Beta Charge Cube — can replenish the battery in under one hour and uses open standards, allowing interoperability with other electric aircraft and EVs.
Alt-text: “Beta ALIA CTOL electric aircraft charging via Charge Cube system at airport”
🤝 Republic Airways Takes the Lead in Electric Flight
Republic Airways, known for operating flights for Delta, United, and American, will test a pre-certified ALIA CTOL through its subsidiary, Brickyard Connection.
According to Matt Koscal, President and COO of Republic Airways:
“The ALIA CTOL is a window into the future of regional aviation. Beta’s vision aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and innovation.”
Together, the two companies plan to expand a network of electric charging stations across U.S. airports, laying the groundwork for nationwide electric regional mobility.
🌍 Why the ALIA CTOL Matters
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Zero emissions: No CO₂ or NOₓ
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Low noise: Up to 75 % quieter than traditional aircraft
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Low operating costs: ~ 95 % cheaper per hour than fuel airplanes
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Infrastructure-ready: Charge Cube supports multiple aircraft types
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Sustainability first: Part of the global move to decarbonize aviation
The ALIA CTOL is not a concept — it’s a certification-bound electric aircraft already taking test flights across North America.
🚀 The Future of ALIA CTOL and Electric Aviation
Beta Technologies expects to deliver the first ALIA CTOL to the Republic by the end of 2025. If successful, this could be the first commercially viable electric aircraft program in the United States.
From supply chains to airport infrastructure, the impact of the ALIA CTOL could extend far beyond the runway — redefining regional connectivity for a new generation of travelers.
Alt-text: “Pilot and passengers boarding Beta Technologies ALIA CTOL electric plane for regional flight”