The folks at UPS and specifically at their UPS Flight Forward subsidiary have recently announced plans to purchase electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Beta Technologies. These new aircraft will augment UPS’ air service and will be utilized in select UPS small and mid-size business markets. The aircraft will initially take off and land on-property at UPS facilities and will operate in a whisper-quiet fashion, providing reduced transit times, reduced vehicle emissions, and will certainly help UPS to reduce its operating cost.
The BETA aircraft’s 1,400-pound cargo capacity has been identified by UPS as being ideally suited to more promptly and sustainably transport time-sensitive deliveries that would otherwise fly on small fixed-wing aircraft. Initially UPS plans to use this new aircraft to benefit the healthcare industry, as well as many small and medium-sized businesses in smaller communities. The aircraft has a 250-mile range and can reach cruising speeds up to 170 miles per hour. Here is UPS’ official announcement.
UPS Flight Forward adds innovative new aircraft, enhancing capabilities and network sustainability
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