Norway has taken a significant leap for aviation with an electric plane successfully flying the 160-kilometre route from Stavanger to Bergen, emulating a cargo flight under normal operational conditions for the very first time.
The ALIA, produced by US-based BETA Technologies, took off from Stavanger Airport at 11:00 and landed in Bergen after a 55-minute flight.
The initiative forms part of Norway’s international test arena for zero- and low-emission aviation, a collaboration between Avinor, the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway (CAA Norway), BETA Technologies, and Bristow Norway. As it is designed to stimulate cargo operations, the Stavanger–Bergen route will continue to be flown regularly throughout the trial period, which is scheduled to run until January.
The ALIA aircraft is a single-engine model configured for single-pilot operation, with a payload capacity of 562 kilograms, comparable to about five passengers. It operates at cruising speeds between 115 and 145 knots (210–270 km/h), similar to a light aircraft, and has a maximum range of 400 kilometres. This capability allows it to complete the Stavanger–Bergen route with sufficient energy reserves to make a return trip on a single charge.
The test programme is divided into three phases. The first, which began on 8 August, involved take-offs and landings at Stavanger to familiarise crews and ground operations teams with the new technology. The second phase, now underway, focuses on full-route flights, while the third and final stage later this year will see the aircraft transition to operating under instrument flight rules.
“This phase is critical for capturing the real-world data needed to understand how electric aircraft can operate effectively in this unique landscape. It’s exciting for this partnership, and our aircraft, to play a key role in shaping the future of regional air mobility,” said Shawn Hall, Chief Revenue Officer at BETA.
Avinor and CAA Norway established the test arena to build operational learning and prepare the aviation industry for the entry of zero- and low-emission aircraft. By conducting trials in live airspace and at operational airports, the programme is generating insights into infrastructure requirements, safety regulations, and integration with existing network.
“We are learning each day how to support innovation and further understand and regulate new technologies. The Test Arena is taking significant steps, and we in the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway value the professional and safe conduct of the parties involved in making the first flight possible,” noted Jan Petter Steinland, Director Strategic Analysis & Transformation at the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway.
Norwegian regulators are closely tracking the outcomes of the project, with expectations that commercial deployment of Norway electric aircraft could occur between 2028 and 2030. Full certification, charging infrastructure, and operational prerequisites are needed to be in place.
Norway is in the forefront in electric aircraft testing. The ALIA trial represents a significant leap forward, with greater range, higher payload, and more resemblance to normal operations. Having the Stavanger–Bergen route active, the trial will continue to provide valuable insights for regulators and industry players until January, setting the stage for wider implementation of green aviation technology.
