The BETA Technologies Alia electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft marked a historic moment with its first official test flight from Eglin Air Force Base on Nov. 7, 2023. The primary objectives were to assess battery performance over designated distances and power configurations, and to evaluate the logistical aspects of consecutive flights with an electric aircraft.
For the test, Alia pilots covered 68 nautical miles to Tyndall AFB, landing and promptly returning to Duke Field, north of Eglin. Notably, the aircraft recharged using the Defense Department’s sole aircraft charging station, taking approximately one hour for a full recharge. This unique process mirrors military flight operations, resembling the concept of “hot-pitting,” where an aircraft refuels between missions, except with Alia, the “fuel” is electricity.
This mission showcased Alia’s potential applications for the Air Force and military. It also marked the aircraft’s first solo mission, demonstrating its capabilities for local-area familiarization flights.
In addition to battery and logistics assessments, the test incorporated infrared recordings by the 782nd Test Squadron sensor operators. These recordings, captured with special IR cameras during take-offs and landings, serve as a baseline for calibrating sensors for future tests in December.
“We are trying to get an idea of what kind of IR signature this aircraft is putting out,” noted Josh Bohannon, 782nd TS senior electronics engineer. Infrared engine signature is crucial for determining aircraft survivability, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the IR characteristics of an electric aircraft engine in flight.
All findings from this milestone flight will contribute to the AFWERX electric vertical take-off and landing program, managed and sponsored by AFWERX Agility Prime.
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