Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), and Kyle Clark, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Beta Technologies, have discussed ways to enhance cooperation, exchange experiences, and share best practices in the field of advanced electric aircraft.
This came during a high-level visit by a delegation from the GCAA and representatives from government entities in the aviation sector in the UAE to Beta’s factory in Vermont, USA, the authority said in a statement.
Saif Al Suwaidi emphasized that electric aircraft technology is currently witnessing tremendous advancements, particularly in light of future visions and plans to integrate air transport into the urban mobility system.
Al Suwaidi pointed out that the UAE is a pioneer in this field, working in collaboration with several leading global companies to enhance supportive regulations and policies, and to develop an advanced infrastructure for vertical take-off and landing networks, in preparation for the commercial launch of air taxis in 2026.
Al Suwaidi added that the GCAA is keen to stay updated on the latest global technologies in this area, praising the advanced technologies and precise engineering he observed at the factory, which contribute to global efforts in developing a safe and sustainable advanced air mobility system.
During the visit, Clark underlined Beta’s significant achievements in revolutionizing aviation through their development of the ALIA Conventional Takeoff and Landing (CTOL) followed by the ALIA Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft.
The tour showcased Beta production facility’s advanced assembly tooling and critical systems production lines including batteries and charging units, demonstrating substantial progress in delivering an all-electric aircraft to both the Military and Civil sectors. The facility highlighted Beta’s commitment to aviation sustainability and innovation.
This visit comes as part of efforts to explore the latest developments in advanced air mobility, which is in line with the UAE’s strategic vision to strengthen its global partnerships in advanced air transport technologies and reinforce its leadership in sustainable aviation.
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