Training and Workforce
Beta Wins FAA Approval for Dual Control eVTOL Flight Training
Student pilots now authorized to fly Beta's Alia 250 eVTOL
A Beta test pilot and U.S. Air Force pilot are pictured in a Beta Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft.
Beta's electric air taxis feature dual flight controls, so student pilots can fly the aircraft under the supervision of a Beta test pilot. © Beta Technologies

Beta Technologies has received FAA authorization to begin dual-seat pilot training in its Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft, the Vermont-based aircraft developer announced Wednesday. The FAA letter of authorization (LOA) allows student pilots to operate Beta’s Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft, so long as they share the dual flight controls with one of Beta’s powered-lift test pilots.

Under the FAA’s proposed special federal aviation regulations for powered-lift pilots, this sort of hands-on flight training is only permitted in aircraft with dual flight controls. However, the FAA is considering an exception to that 86-year-old flight training rule as it faces industry pressure—particularly from eVTOL aircraft developers who did not build dual controls into their designs.