Bristow Group’s new ALIA CX300 from BETA Technologies flies in Norway

In a defining leap for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Scandinavia, Norway’s highly anticipated Test Arena for Zero‑ & Low‑Emission Aviation vaulted into reality on August 8, 2025, as Bristow Norway took to the skies with BETA Technologies’ all‑electric ALIA CX300 at Stavanger Airport.

Test Flight Unfolds: A Milestone for Clean Aviation

The flight, which unfolded over Stavanger and will continue on routes such as Stavanger–Bergen over the coming months, marks the operational launch of Norway’s regulatory sandbox for AAM. This ambitious campaign is part of a six‑month evaluation of viable commercial corridors, with Bristow-trained pilots—Jeremy Degagne flying alongside BETA’s Nate Dubie—leading the charge. The ALIA’s delivery to Norway represented a trans‑European journey around the Ireland and the UK before stopping at the Paris Air Show, Germany, Luxembourg, Denmark,with the ultimate destination being Norway, where Bristow Group is evaluating BETA’s electric aircraft along with Avinor and the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority.

A National Strategy Takes Flight

Norway’s coordinated approach—including Avinor, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA Norway), and backing from the national Ministry of Transport—embodies its ambition to make the country a global testbed for decarbonized aviation. This aligns with its broader National Transport Plan (2025–2036), backed by 1 billion kroner, and earlier milestones such as a 2024 Letter of Intent among key industry players.

All the key players from Bristow Group, Beta Technologies, Avinor and the rest of the Norwegian Government institutions were adamant about Norway’s leading role in actively adopting the aviation of the future. A harsh winter climate which makes Norway dependant on sustainable aviation, combined with the Norwegian climate of openness and full embracement of green energy technology makes Norway an unsurprisingly active player and early adopter of the Beta Technologies ALIA CTOL operated by Bristow Group Norway. The Norwegian authorities have a deep understanding of the shared responsibility we all have to take care of our environment and planet.

From their Own Words:

“As a nation wholly dependent on aviation — today as well as in the future — transitioning to a more sustainable aviation industry is a major priority for my government.”… .”This first flight represents a significant step on a long and complex journey. As the Test Arena demonstrates, cooperation between authorities, airports, manufacturers, operators — and not least, political support — is essential. The systemic approach the Test Arena facilitates is unique, and I am proud that Norway is at the forefront.” – Jon-Ivar Nygård, Minister of Transport

“Today’s test flight is an important step in turning climate policy into practical solutions. If we are to succeed with the green transition, we must test, learn and build – not just plan. With this test arena, Norway is taking a leading role in the development of zero-emission aviation, while also creating new opportunities for green jobs and innovation,” –  Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, Minister of Climate and Environment

“Bristow is proud to be a part of this cutting-edge program and our participation in this test arena directly aligns with our philosophical ‘crawl, walk, run’ approach to developing Advanced Air Mobility for commercial operations.” ….”The information we learn through the test arena program will provide valuable operational insights that could help operators, manufacturers, and regulators better understand how best to move forward towards commercial operations.” – – Dave Stepanek, Bristow’s Executive Vice President, Chief Transformation Officer.

“To be delivering ALIA to our partners at Bristow and kicking off operational testing here in Norway is a big moment for BETA.” “Bristow has been with us from the start and shares our drive for progress, and Norway, with its spirit of innovation and modernization, is a perfect place to move this technology forward. Handing off the aircraft to a customer is, in part, a huge milestone, but it’s also an important launchpad for all that comes next for the industry.” – Shawn Hall, BETA’s Chief Revenue Officer.

“This essential and meaningful step will support the industry, accelerate innovation in new mobility, and strengthen our expertise. We are excited to continue this critical work.”…..”Aviation is a safe mode of transport and a well-regulated sector. As the aviation authority, we will ensure that we facilitate testing new technologies and contribute to safe testing and future integrations. We will learn how rules and regulations must evolve to enable new technologies and concepts. Through this, we aim to build the necessary expertise early on for tomorrow’s solutions.” –  Lars Kobberstad, Director General of CAA Norway.

“The first flight of the Test Arena is a major milestone for Norwegian aviation and for Avinor, and a key step towards future commercial operations of zero- and low-emission flights in Norway.” …..”As a small, open economy with a dispersed population, Norway is entirely dependent on aviation and its broad network of airports. We are strongly committed to driving the long-term transition to a more sustainable aviation sector, while maintaining strong domestic and international connectivity.” – Abraham Foss, Avinor’s Chief Executive Officer.

Bristow Group

• Based in Houston, Texas
• NYSE: VTOL
• $1.4 B revenue in 2024
• over 450 helicopters and aircraft in its fleet
• Services:
  • Offshore Energy Services
  • Search and Rescue
  • Government Services
  • Aircraft Leasing
  • Advanced Air Mobility
  • Fleet Support
  • Maintenance & Modifications
  • Unmanned Aerial Solutions
  • Utility

Bristow Group Norway has locations in:

• Bergen
• Ekofisk
• Floro
• Hammerfest
• Stavanger

Beta Technologies

• Based in South Burlington, Vermont
• manufacturer of the ALIA eVTOL and eCTOL aircraft
• ALIA
  • eVTOL and CTOL versions
  • 5 passengers
  • less than 1 hour charging

Technical Fit for Norwegian Terrain

ALIA CX300’s design—optimized for payload, IFR capability, range, and cold-weather operations—makes it especially suited for Norway’s rugged, vast landscape

Charge Cube and Mini Cube

Charge Cube (Permanent Charge Solution)

• AC Voltage Connection: 480 Vac, 3 Phase, 60 Hz
• AC Grid Current: 420 Amps
• Continuous Power: 320 kW
• Battery Charge Range: Up to 1,000 Vdc
• Continuous: 350 Amps
• Authorization: Phone App + Plug and Charge
• Charging Protocol: CCS

More Info:

Bristow Group official press release: click here