Exploring new flight paths
UPS plans to purchase electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Vermont-based Beta Technologies to augment its air service for select small and mid-size markets.
Beginning in 2024, the first ten of these aircraft (+150 on option) will take off and land on property at UPS facilities, reducing noise, time-in-transit, vehicle emissions and operating cost.
The aircraft's 635 kg cargo capacity is suited to more quickly transport time-sensitive deliveries that would otherwise fly on small fixed-wing aircraft. They will thus benefit healthcare providers, SMEs and other companies in smaller communities.
With a 400 km range and cruising speed of up to 275 km/h, the new aircraft will allow UPS to plan a series of short routes or one long route, on a single charge to meet customers' needs. (ah)