Norway Launches Zero-Emission Aviation Test Arena

Norway has officially launched its Test Arena for Zero & Low Emission Aviation, marking the milestone with the first flight of BETA Technologies’ all-electric ALIA CX300 aircraft at Stavanger Airport. Operated by Bristow Norway in cooperation with Avinor and the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway, the program aims to pave the way for advanced air mobility (AAM) across the country.

 

Over the coming months, evaluation flights will test potential customer routes between Avinor-owned airports, starting with Stavanger–Bergen. Bristow pilots trained by BETA will operate the aircraft throughout the six-month regulatory sandbox.

Norwegian Transport Minister Jon-Ivar Nygård called the project “a significant step on a long and complex journey” toward sustainable aviation, while Climate and Environment Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen praised it as “an important step in turning climate policy into practical solutions.”

Bristow Executive Vice President Dave Stepanek said the test arena will provide “valuable operational insights” to support future commercial AAM operations, and BETA’s Chief Revenue Officer Shawn Hall described Norway as “a perfect place to move this technology forward.”

Norway, already a leader in electric mobility with 89% of new cars sold in 2024 being electric, sees the program as both an environmental and economic opportunity, creating green jobs and fostering innovation.

ALIA’s design, optimized for payload, range, and IFR capability, is suited for Norway’s dispersed geography and cold climate. The aircraft arrived after a multi-country journey through Ireland, the UK, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Denmark, and the Paris Air Show, before reaching Norway.

Avinor CEO Abraham Foss called the initiative “a key step towards future commercial operations of zero- and low-emission flights in Norway,” reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable aviation while maintaining strong connectivity.