Air New Zealand has officially revealed ALIA as the initial acquisition in its Mission Next Gen Aircraft programme, marking the airline’s foray into next-generation aviation technology. Air New Zealand has made a firm order for one aircraft with options for an additional two aircraft and rights for a further 20 aircraft.
Crafted by electric aerospace innovator BETA Technologies, ALIA, a battery-powered all-electric aircraft, is anticipated to become a part of Air New Zealand’s operational fleet by 2026. The airline has opted for the conventional take-off and landing version of ALIA.
This significant announcement follows an exhaustive 18-month evaluation and diligence period by Air New Zealand. As part of the Mission Next Gen Aircraft initiative, the airline actively engaged with 30 organisations, ultimately selecting four partners to collaborate closely with in pursuit of launching commercial flights using next-gen aircraft by 2026. BETA’s ALIA secures the position as the inaugural commercial order in this strategic programme.
Initially, Air New Zealand plans to deploy ALIA as a cargo-only service in collaboration with New Zealand Post. The specific route for this operation will be determined through an expression of interest (EOI) process, involving airports across Aotearoa.
Greg Foran, Chief Executive Officer of Air New Zealand, emphasised that this purchase reinforces the airline’s dedication to integrating lower-emission aircraft into New Zealand’s aviation landscape.
“While this acquisition represents a modest yet pivotal step in Air New Zealand’s journey, there is substantial work ahead. We are fully committed, and this purchase signifies the commencement of a new chapter for the airline,” said Foran.
He further underscored the challenges of decarbonising aviation and acknowledges the need for accelerated progress in technology, infrastructure, operations, and regulation. The ALIA, while complementing the existing fleet, is envisioned as a catalyst for transformation. By operating the ALIA, Air New Zealand aims to enhance its understanding and contribute to the systemic changes required for the introduction of larger, fleet-replacing next-gen aircraft by 2030.
