In New York, a fully electric passenger aircraft successfully landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) for the first time in history. The Alia CX300 prototype by Beta Technologies carried four passengers and a pilot on board for a demonstration flight. The trip lasted 45 minutes and departed from East Hampton Airport on Long Island.
The energy cost for the flight was just $7, while a helicopter flight would have cost $160.
The Alia CX300 project has been in development for six years, and the company expects to receive official certification by the end of 2025.
Interest in the technology is coming not only from city authorities pursuing full decarbonization of transport by 2050, but also from major market players. Work is underway in the region to build infrastructure and a route network, including the largest airports and city centers. It is possible that in the next few years the familiar roar of engines will be replaced by a lighter hum of electric propulsion—and this would be quieter, cleaner, and cheaper.
