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The ALIA CX300 aircraft, produced by BETA Technologies in the United States, is set to arrive in New Zealand as part of a technical demonstrator program announced by Mission Next Gen Aircraft. This initiative aims to test the new technology in New Zealand before the battery-electric commercial aircraft begins its cargo operations between Wellington and Blenheim in 2026.
The early arrival of the ALIA aircraft will allow Air New Zealand to gain insights into its performance, start pilot and crew training, and introduce the technology to New Zealanders. Initially based at Hamilton Airport, the program will conduct proving flights before expanding to nearby airports and eventually reaching Wellington. These flights will simulate the planned cargo operations with New Zealand Post scheduled for 2026.
Kiri Hannifin, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer at Air New Zealand, emphasized that while the aircraft won't be used commercially yet, it offers a valuable opportunity for both the airline and New Zealand's aviation system. "We're so thrilled to be moving into the next generation of aviation," she stated. Hannifin highlighted Air New Zealand's commitment to reducing emissions as part of their goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
