Loganair to Buy Five BETA Electric Aircraft by 2029

The Glasgow-based airline Loganair signed a term sheet with US aerospace company BETA Technologies at the Farnborough Airshow to purchase five ALIA CTOL (CX300) all-electric aircraft. The agreement includes an option to purchase five additional planes, with the fleet scheduled for commercial introduction by 2029. This initiative aims to make Loganair the first commercial operator of electric aircraft in Europe.

The aircraft will serve passenger and cargo routes, specifically targeting remote and island communities where journeys typically span less than 100 miles. The decision follows a March demonstration programme in which the CX300 completed 23 flights covering more than 1,000 nautical miles across Scotland. The airline expects the technology to reduce operating costs by up to 80% and lower emissions, utilizing fast-charging capabilities that allow for turnaround times of 20 to 40 minutes on existing runways.

Chief Executive Luke Farajallah described the agreement as a historic moment for European aviation, stating that the earlier demonstration proved electric aviation is a viable commercial opportunity. BETA Technologies founder Kyle Clark noted that the company met Loganair's high standards by flying the aircraft directly on the airline's specific routes and conditions.