Bristow and Beta Technologies Begin Operational Testing of Electric Aircraft in Norway
Helicopter operator Bristow Norway and U.S.-based Beta Technologies have commenced operational testing of the Alia CX300 electric aircraft in Norway. The trial program, approved by the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and air navigation service provider Avinor, began on August 8 and is expected to run for several months.
The Alia CX300, a conventional takeoff and landing electric aircraft, arrived in Stavanger after completing a 3,800-nautical mile journey from Beta’s headquarters in Vermont. Along its route, the aircraft made stops in Ireland, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and Denmark, and also participated in a demonstration at the Paris Air Show in June.
As part of the testing program, Bristow pilots are flying the CX300 to evaluate potential commercial routes within Norway. One example under consideration is a route between Stavanger and Bergen, two cities with strong ties to the energy sector. Though the air distance between them is just over 86 nautical miles, the ground travel time can be several hours.
Beta Technologies is providing training to Bristow pilots during the program. Bristow is a launch customer for the five-seat CX300 and has also indicated interest in Beta’s A250 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which is expected to enter service following the eCTOL model.
“This testing aligns with our phased approach to integrating advanced air mobility into our operations,” said Dave Stepanek, Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer at Bristow.
“The insights we gain through this program may help inform manufacturers, operators, and regulators as they assess the requirements for future commercial applications.”
The Norwegian CAA and Avinor have authorized the testing under a six-month sandbox initiative intended to support early-stage integration of electric aircraft into existing airspace systems. Beta Technologies is targeting type certification of the CX300 in 2026.
Commenting on the initiative, Norway’s transport minister Jon-Ivar Nygård said:
“Aviation remains critical to Norway’s transport infrastructure, and developing more sustainable solutions is an important objective for the government. This test project reflects the need for cooperation among regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders, and policymakers.”
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