Beta Technologies is collaborating with Near Earth Autonomy to develop autonomous capabilities for electric aircraft
Beta Technologies is collaborating with Near Earth Autonomy to develop autonomous capabilities for its electric and hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. The partnership aims to enable aircraft to serve defence and commercial applications including cargo logistics.
Beta has conducted more than 1,000 hours of uncrewed flights on a fleet of subscale aircraft, demonstrating a range of more than 158 nautical miles on a single charge. The company has completed initial integration of perception and guidance systems into its fly-by-wire flight control system with support from Near Earth.
Flight testing is anticipated to begin in the first half of 2026. Beta’s aircraft are designed with fly-by-wire flight control technology to enable both crewed and uncrewed operations.
In a statement, Shawn Hall, Chief Revenue Officer of Beta, said: “Increasing our autonomy capabilities will deliver even greater optionality to operators, including faster speed, higher payload, longer range, and optional piloting. In order to meet the demands of the defense and civil sectors today, mobility platforms must be smarter, more flexible, and ready to operate where traditional systems can’t.”
Sanjiv Singh, Chief Executive of Near Earth Autonomy, added: “Partnering with BETA Technologies is a natural extension of our experience and expertise in bringing autonomy to a variety of missions and aircraft.”
Beta’s piloted aircraft can carry up to 1,240 pounds or five passengers, with nearly double capacity without a pilot. Commercial cargo customers include UPS, Bristow and e-Smart Logistics.
Source: Beta Technologies
