UPS (NYSE: UPS) will take delivery of 10 Beta Technologies electric aircraft for use in small and midsize markets, with an option to purchase up to 150 of the planes in all.
The package giant, which already has more than 12,000 alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles in its global fleet, with an order for 10,000 electric delivery vans from Arrival (NASDAQ: ARVL), will receive the first batch of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in 2024. The planes are being purchased for the UPS Flight Forward subsidiary.
“This is all about innovation with a focus on returns for our business, our customers and the environment,” said Juan Perez, UPS chief information and engineering officer. “These new aircraft will create operational efficiencies in our business, open possibilities for new services and serve as a foundation for future solutions to reduce the emissions profile of our air and ground operation.”
Beta’s aircraft are rated for 1,400-pound cargo capacity and can be used to move time-critical goods. UPS plans to use the aircraft in smaller communities to help service areas where it currently uses small fixed-wing aircraft. The aircraft are expected to have a range of up to 250 miles and a cruising speed of 170 miles per hour.
In March, Beta completed a test flight from Plattsburgh, New York, to the company’s headquarters in Burlington, Vermont. The plane was piloted by test pilot Camron Guthrie, who climbed to 8,000 feet along the route. The aircraft, nicknamed Alia, has a wingspan of 50 feet and can be recharged in about 50 minutes. Each aircraft can have up to five battery packs installed.
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