PortsToronto recently welcomed BETA Technologies, a manufacturer of electric aircraft and charging infrastructure, to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport for a demonstration flight of its advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft, the ALIA CTOL. The event, co-hosted by fixed-base operator (FBO) Stolport, highlighted Toronto’s readiness for electric aviation and showcased BETA’s innovative technology. As part of the demonstration, Stolport also announced the purchase of a BETA Minicube charger to support its operations at the airport, marking BETA’s first charger sale in Canada.
The ALIA CTOL demonstration underlined Billy Bishop Airport’s commitment to investing in infrastructure and technology to accommodate electric aircraft, in line with a modernised governance agreement. The BETA Minicube is a mobile, multimodal charger capable of powering both electric aircraft and ground vehicles, enhancing operational flexibility for the airport and its partners.
Canada, recognised as a global aerospace hub, benefits from exceptional engineering talent and a strong industry presence. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport serves as a key mobility hub in Ontario, transporting more than two million passengers annually to over 20 Canadian and U.S. cities, with connections to more than 100 international destinations. By integrating electric aviation infrastructure, the airport is positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable and innovative air transport.
BETA Technologies, with its structures engineering division based in Montreal, has established a growing network of 52 chargers across the U.S., supporting commercial, military, and medical operations. These sites, installed in partnership with airports, FBOs, government agencies, and OEMs, aim to make electric aviation accessible to both metropolitan and remote communities.
Beyond the ALIA CTOL, BETA is also developing the ALIA VTOL — a vertical take-off and landing aircraft — at its 188,000 ft² Vermont facility. The company is accelerating production, certification, and delivery efforts across its aircraft and ground support equipment. Its customer roster includes major operators such as UPS, Air New Zealand, Republic Airways, United Therapeutics, Bristow, Helijet, Metro Aviation, and the U.S. Department of Defense, signalling strong industry adoption of electric aviation solutions.
