Silent Electric Aircraft Could Turn NYC into a ‘Jetsons’-Inspired City
June 8, 2025
On Tuesday morning, the first-ever North American passenger flight of an electric-powered plane landed at JFK, marking a milestone for aviation. The ALIA aircraft, developed by BETA Technologies, flew from East Hampton to JFK in 49 minutes, using just $8 worth of electricity.
Kyle Clark, CEO of BETA and pilot of the flight, emphasized how this innovation reduces flying costs, improves safety, and minimizes noise. The aircraft, which can carry four passengers and one pilot, is designed to take off horizontally like a traditional plane and vertically like a helicopter. ALIA’s modular propellers give it a drone-like appearance.
BETA Technologies, founded by Clark in 2017, has raised over $1 billion in funding. The ALIA aircraft, built in Burlington, VT, is the only electric plane being produced at scale in North America. During the flight, ALIA integrated seamlessly into JFK’s Class B airspace, matching commercial jet speeds and altitudes.
The electric plane’s quiet operation could address noise concerns in busy cities like New York, with potential for vertiports in denser locations. Future plans include vertical flights within the next year and commercial service in two years. BETA has already partnered with companies like UPS and Air New Zealand and is developing a nationwide charging network.
Clark envisions electric air travel as the future of short-haul flights, making it an affordable and accessible transportation option for New Yorkers.
News Sources: nypost.com
