Beta Technologies Wins FAA Authorization for Electric VTOL Aircraft Demonstrations

07:51 AM EDT, 10/21/2026 (MT Newswires) -- Beta Technologies (BETA) said Wednesday the US Federal Aviation Administration has granted its ALIA A250 electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft a special airworthiness certificate for market surveys. The company said the approval allows it to demonstrate the aircraft to potential customers and operators, helping them assess its use in passenger transport, cargo delivery, medical services and defense. The aircraft can carry up to five passengers and more than 1,200 pounds of cargo, the company added. Beta said the A250 completed its first flight under the authorization on Tuesday, flying 34 nautical miles from Plattsburgh International Airport in New York to Burlington International Airport in Vermont in 20 minutes. The company said it continues to work toward full type certification and commercial operations. Shares of Beta Technologies were up more than 2% in premarket activity Wednesday.