Bristow Launches Electric ALIA Aircraft in Norway's Test Arena for Sustainable Aviation

Launching the Future of Sustainable Aviation in Norway

In a groundbreaking development for the aviation industry, Bristow Norway AS, a subsidiary of Bristow Group Inc., has successfully conducted the inaugural flight of BETA Technologies' ILIA CX300, an all-electric aircraft, at Stavanger Airport. This flight marks the launch of Norway's Test Arena for Zero and Low Emission Aviation, a collaborative effort with Avinor and the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway (CAA Norway).

The Test Arena aims to evaluate various use cases and flight routes for zero-emission aviation in the Nordic region. Over the upcoming months, a series of demonstration flights will take place to assess customer routes at Avinor-owned airports, with the first route linking Stavanger and Bergen airports. Potential expansion to other routes across Norway is also on the horizon later this year.

The successful flight was piloted by Bristow's Jeremy Degagne and BETA's Nate Dubie, symbolizing a critical step towards advancing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Norway. Both companies are committed to facilitating the integration of innovative aviation technology into the country’s air transport landscape, paving the way for future commercial operations. BETA-trained pilots will fly and maintain the ALIA aircraft throughout the six-month regulatory sandbox evaluation project, contributing valuable insights for all stakeholders involved.

Norway’s Minister of Transport, Jon-Ivar Nygård, emphasized the nation’s commitment to a sustainable aviation sector. He noted, "As a country entirely reliant on aviation, transitioning to a more sustainable industry is a critical priority. This first flight is a significant step in what promises to be a long and complex journey shaped by cooperation between authorities, airports, manufacturers, and operators."

Similarly, Minister of Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, stated the importance of converting climate policy into actionable solutions. He believes that by testing new technologies, Norway is not only taking a leading role in zero-emission aviation but also generating new opportunities for green jobs and innovation.

Dave Stepanek, Bristow's Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, expressed pride in being part of this pioneering program. He mentioned that the test flights would yield essential operational data for manufacturers, regulators, and operators to understand the path towards commercial aviation utilizing advanced air mobility solutions.

Furthermore, Shawn Hall, Chief Revenue Officer at BETA Technologies, remarked on the significance of delivering the ALIA for operational testing in Norway. He highlighted Norway's spirit of innovation and modernization as a perfect backdrop for advancing aviation technology, stating that this partnership represents a huge milestone and launching pad for the industry’s future.

What makes this endeavor particularly exciting is Norway's track record in contributing to clean mobility. As per recent data, electric vehicles comprised 89 percent of new car registrations in 2024, showcasing the country’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. The Test Arena will explore the benefits of AAM for both the region and its residents, as well as the necessary infrastructure to facilitate integrated operations.

The ALIA aircraft boasts a unique design optimized for payload, range, and IFR capabilities, making it ideal for Norway's challenging weather conditions and dispersed geographic landscape. Lars Kobberstad, Director General of CAA Norway, reiterated the importance of this project for accelerating innovation in the new mobility space while ensuring safety through rigorous testing.

Abraham Foss, CEO of Avinor, affirmed that this first flight is a pivotal moment for Norwegian aviation, driving the long-term transition towards a sustainable sector that still maintains robust domestic and international connectivity. A team of BETA pilots carefully delivered the aircraft, which had traveled over 6,976 kilometers through seven European countries before reaching Norway.

As demonstrated by this significant development, Norway is set to play a vital role in the evolution of sustainable aviation technology. The successful trial of the ALIA provides an optimistic glimpse into the future, where reduced emissions and increased innovation coexist in the aviation industry. By establishing a collaborative Test Arena, stakeholders hope to enhance operational efficiency and create a cleaner environment for future generations.