Air New Zealand has set its sights on being the pioneering airline to operate electric planes, revealing plans to incorporate a battery-powered ALIA aircraft into its fleet by 2026.
The national carrier has placed an order for the electric aircraft from Beta Technologies, a US-based aerospace manufacturer. Initially designated for cargo-only services, transporting packages and letters on domestic routes in collaboration with New Zealand Post, the ALIA is part of Air New Zealand’s commitment to reducing emissions.
Kiri Hannifin, Air New Zealand’s Chief Sustainability Officer, expressed the airline’s ambition to be the first to commercially operate next-generation electric aircraft. While the initial deployment will focus on cargo, there is currently no set date for the introduction of passenger flights on battery-powered planes. Scandinavian Airlines had previously announced plans to commence commercial electric flights in 2028.
The ALIA, with a swift one-hour full recharge capability, is designed to take off and land conventionally. Measuring approximately 12 meters in length and weighing three tonnes, it has demonstrated a range of 480 kilometers (298 miles) in a single test flight, reaching a top speed of 270 kilometers per hour and flying at altitudes of up to 3,000 meters. Initially, the electric plane will cover routes of around 150 kilometers once certified for safe flight.
Air New Zealand’s CEO, Greg Foran, emphasized that the ALIA purchase aligns with the company’s commitment to lower emissions in aviation. He views this move as a crucial step in the airline’s journey toward operating larger next-generation electric aircraft by 2030. The airline has initially ordered one ALIA aircraft with an option to purchase nearly two dozen more.
Foran anticipates that the introduction of the ALIA will not only contribute to decarbonizing regional operations but also enhance the airline’s understanding of electric aviation. Details regarding the airports where the ALIA will be based are expected to be disclosed in early 2024. The purchase of the electric aircraft signifies a significant milestone for Air New Zealand, marking a new era in its commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly aviation.
