Beta Technologies’ Alia CX300 has made history by becoming the world’s first fully electric aircraft to complete a flight with passengers on board. Earlier this month, the aircraft flew from East Hampton to New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport, carrying four passengers and covering around 70 nautical miles (130 km) in just over 30 minutes, as reported by Fox News. Eco-Friendly and Pocket-Friendly What makes this feat even more remarkable is the cost—just Rs 694 ($8) worth of electricity powered the entire journey. In comparison, a helicopter flying the same route would have consumed nearly Rs 13,885 ($160) in fuel. With no noisy engines or propellers, passengers enjoyed a quiet, comfortable conversation throughout the flight. “This is a 100% electric airplane that just flew with passengers from East Hampton to JFK — a first for the New York Port Authority and the region,” said Kyle Clark, CEO and founder of Beta Technologies, as per NDTV Auto. FAA Approval Founded in Vermont in 2017, Beta Technologies is developing two electric aircraft models — the CX300, a conventional take-off and landing aircraft, and the Alia 250, a vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) model. The CX300 can fly up to 250 nautical miles (463 km) on a single charge, making it ideal for short city-to-city or suburban trips. The company recently secured $318 million in funding to help speed up production, certification, and commercial launch. It hopes to gain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for the CX300 by the end of 2025. Beta isn’t alone in this electric revolution. Archer Aviation, another US-based firm, has been chosen as the official air taxi provider for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Although still awaiting FAA certification, Archer plans to start operations by 2026, offering spectators a stylish way to dodge LA’s famous traffic.