BETA & Helijet Expand Electric Aviation in Western Canada

BETA Technologies and Helijet are advancing electric aviation in Western Canada, planning regional low‑emission aircraft services to boost connectivity across British Columbia.

The collaboration between Vermont‑based developer BETA Technologies and Vancouver’s helicopter operator Helijet aims to pilot electric aircraft for short regional hops and cargo runs across coastal and inland communities in British Columbia. The partners say the initiative will explore practical routes, charging infrastructure and operational models suited to Canada’s geography and climate targets.

Helijet, known for scheduled helicopter services connecting Vancouver, Victoria and other coastal points, brings route expertise and local operations know‑how. BETA contributes electric aircraft design, charging systems and maintenance planning. Together they’re focused on integrating electric aircraft into existing regional networks in a way that supports both passenger mobility and freight movements without increasing carbon emissions.

What to expect for electric aviation in Western Canada

Expect staged trials, regulatory engagement and infrastructure pilots rather than immediate scheduled services. The project will evaluate range, payload, turnaround time and how electric aircraft fit into existing airport and heliport operations. Community access, noise reduction and lifecycle emissions are also priority metrics under review.

• Regional trials of electric aviation for passengers and cargo across British Columbia
• Development of charging and ground‑support infrastructure tailored to coastal and remote hubs
• Operational studies on payload, turnaround times and route economics
• Collaboration with regulators and local stakeholders to align safety and certification needs

While specific aircraft models, timelines and routes have not been publicly disclosed, the partnership signals growing industry momentum for next‑generation regional mobility. If pilots proceed, electric aircraft could unlock quieter, cleaner links between communities currently served by helicopters or short turboprops — helping meet local climate objectives and offering a new transportation option for passengers and shippers.

For travellers and aviation watchers, the BETA–Helijet tie‑up is a practical test case: can electric aviation reliably serve Canada’s coastal and inland corridors? The answer will shape whether similar partnerships scale across other provinces and markets.