Vancouver-based Helijet International has announced plans to become the first Canadian air carrier to provide passenger and cargo services using electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

“This provincial government recognizes the potential of advanced air mobility to decarbonize the aviation sector, improve regional connectivity, improve emergency response times and introduce new manufacturing opportunities in our province,” said B.C. Premier David Eby at the announcement yesterday alongside reps from Helijet and Beta.

They’ve placed orders to BETA Technologies out of Vermont for the aircraft.

Helijet says they’ll provide quieter, lower cost, sustainable air transportation for travelers in southwestern B.C. and the Pacific Northwest.

They also say the aircraft’s vertical take-off and landing capability will also have tremendous potential to enhance Helijet’s provision of emergency response, air ambulance and organ transfer services in the Lower Mainland, as well as support rural and remote communities that do not have access to affordable and convenient air services.

The five-passenger + pilot configured ALIA eVTOL aircraft is currently in advanced flight standards development towards commercial regulatory certification in 2026 and will be available for private and commercial service shortly thereafter.