Air New Zealand purchases BETA’s ALIA electric aircraft

Air New Zealand has selected BETA Technologies’ all-electric ALIA aircraft, expected to join the flag carrier’s fleet in 2026, as the airline’s first next-generation aircraft purchase. It has placed a firm order for one aircraft with options for an additional two, and rights for a further 20. Although also available in a vertical take-off and landing configuration, Air New Zealand has selected the conventional variant of the fixed-wing platform, described by the manufacturer as enabling ‘airport-to-airport missions while maximising range and payload’. It will initially operate as a cargo-only service. The ALIA will be the first aircraft purchased under the