Beta Technologies, a company developing eVTOL aircraft for urban air mobility, has received FAA authorization to commence dual-seat pilot training in its Alia 250 aircraft. The FAA's letter of authorization (LOA) allows student pilots to operate the eVTOL aircraft, provided they share the dual flight controls with one of Beta's test pilots.

Beta reported that the FAA thoroughly evaluated its training practices before granting the LOA, including an extensive review of the ground, simulation, and flight training procedures Beta has been using to train its test pilot team.

The company also reported that it has commenced eVTOL pilot training at its headquarters in Burlington, Vermont and its flight testing facilities at Plattsburgh International Airport in upstate New York. Beta plans to receive an FAA-type certificate for the CX300 in 2025 and for the Alia 250 by 2026.

Analyst QuickTake: The company completed its first piloted test flights for the Alia 250 prototype in April 2024 from Beta's testing facilities at Plattsburgh International Airport in New York. The Alia 250 spun its four vertical lift propellers and single rear pusher-propeller until it reached maximum cruise speed.