Canada's advanced air mobility (AAM) sector has taken a significant step forward as Helijet International and Canadian Advanced Air Mobility (CAAM) welcomed the arrival of Beta Technologies' Alia CTOL (Conventional Take-off and Landing) model CX300 aircraft to Vancouver International airport. This is the first time Beta has flown its electric passenger- and cargo-carrying aircraft into Western Canada.

Today's flight marks the next in a series of steps Helijet is taking to become the first Canadian air carrier to provide passenger and cargo air services using eVTOL aircraft. In 2023, Helijet announced a firm order for Beta's Alia VTOL (Vertical Take-off and Landing), model A250 aircraft with the support of British Columbia Premier David Eby.

Upon delivery, Helijet will integrate the Alia VTOL aircraft into its existing network of helicopter services, providing quieter, lower-cost, sustainable air transportation for travellers in southwestern British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest.

Alia's VTOL capability has the potential to enhance Helijet's ongoing provision of healthcare and cargo air services in the Lower Mainland. This effort, which is being conducted alongside Helijet's alliance partner, Helicopters Without Borders, aims to support rural and remote communities that do not have access to affordable and convenient air services.

“Helijet is delighted to welcome the first arrival of the CX300 to our terminal here at YVR,” says Helijet president and CEO Danny Sitnam. “Today's smooth and successful demonstration flight is tangible proof that the future of passenger and cargo flights is aboard quiet and emissions-free aircraft like the CX300 and its counterpart the Alia eVTOL model from Beta Technologies. When it comes to customer service and environmental sustainability, Helijet is proud to be an early adopter of innovative technology that prioritises the needs of people and the planet.”

“In the past two years, we have steadily increased our presence in Canada, from opening offices in Montréal, landing the first electric aircraft at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, joining the CAAM board and forging an ongoing partnership with Helijet to help create cargo and passenger solutions for Western Canada,” said Sheradin Fabrizius, sales director at Beta. “We're excited for the industry's growth as we demonstrate that quiet, lower-cost electric aviation is quickly becoming a reality across the continent.”

“Today's arrival of the Beta Alia CTOL (CX300) aircraft at YVR marks another aviation milestone for advanced air mobility in B.C. and Canada,” adds CAAM executive director JR Hammond. “The progress being achieved by Helijet, Beta and CAAM members across the country demonstrates that advanced air mobility is quickly becoming operational reality for carriers, airports and fixed-base operators worldwide.”