Bristow has successfully completed the first full test flight of BETA Technologies’ all-electric ALIA aircraft on the Stavanger–Bergen route, simulating a cargo service. The achievement is part of Norway’s international test arena for zero- and low-emission aviation, a partnership involving Avinor, CAA Norway, BETA Technologies, and Bristow Norway.
In flight from Stavanger to Bergen © Avinor/Margareth AskeThe 160 km route is well within ALIA’s 400 km range. The single-pilot aircraft carries up to 562 kg (5 passengers) and cruises at 210–270 km/h, comparable to light aircraft. The test campaign runs from August to January in three phases: initial familiarisation flights, full-route operations, and later instrument flight rules testing.
Partners hailed the milestone as a significant step in gathering real-world data on electric aviation, with the aim of preparing Norway’s aviation ecosystem for scaling zero- and low-emission technologies. The program is expected to provide critical insights into operational challenges both in the air and on the ground, supporting the transition toward more sustainable regional air mobility.
