FutureFlight
Air New Zealand Will Operate Beta's Alia Electric Aircraft from 2026
The airline has chosen the Alia as the first electric aircraft to be deployed as part of its Mission NextGen decarbonization program, which could see larger models introduced from 2030.
Beta's Alia aircraft in Air New Zealand livery
Air New Zealand is set to operate Beta's Alia electric aircraft on postal services. (Image: Beta Technologies)

Air New Zealand is to introduce up to 23 of Beta Technologies’ Alia electric aircraft to its fleet, based on a deal announced on Tuesday with the manufacturer of the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) model. The agreement covers one firm order, plus options for two more and rights covering an additional 20 aircraft.

The airline intends to use the Alia for cargo service for the New Zealand postal service and plans to announce in early 2024 which two airports will be served in the first phase of operations in 2026. The move is part of Air New Zealand’s wider Mission Next Gen Aircraft decarbonization program, under which it is evaluating other aircraft types, with the Beta vehicle marking the carrier’s first firm purchase commitment.