By Steffen Klenk
The Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA) and the National Aviation Research & Technology Park (NARTP) recently hosted BETA Technologies to model the latest all-electric ALIA aircraft, along with an in-flight demonstration.
The gathering, held at Atlantic City International Airport on Monday, July 8, provided an opportunity for aviation professionals, enthusiasts, and policymakers to witness the latest advancements in aviation and new developments taking shape.
Over the last four years, BETA Technologies, based in Vermont, has conducted several flight tests, and is on track to build a cross-country network of chargers capable of supporting electric-powered planes. So far, up to 20 chargers are online up and down the Eastern Seaboard, with 50 more sites in development, enabling a new platform that would not only reshape air travel, but provide a more efficient and eco-friendly option.
This most recent showcase of aviation technology is part of a larger expansion of South Jersey’s ever-growing aerospace industry, fueled by partnerships and collaboration. According to Mark Logan, chairman of the NARTP, Monday’s aviation showcase highlighted just part of the innovation and growth. “I’m very excited to see what the potential is for airplanes like this. An all-electric airplane that can carry people and cargo, and are able to transition to unmanned technologies is very exciting in the innovation realm that we’re working in.”
The National Aviation Research & Technology Park sits adjacent to William J. Hughes Technical Center, and Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), a designated Smart Airport Research Testbed Facility. In 2023, the airport saw over 926,000 passengers, and is anticipated to surpass that number by year’s end.
“We are here to truly witness the unveiling and the future of aviation”, says Stephen Dougherty, executive director of the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA). “We are committed to fostering innovation and embracing sustainable solutions that pave the way for a greener tomorrow.”
Over the last 10 years, college students have been acquiring experience in this innovative and growing field while earning their degree in fields such as aviation, air traffic control, and transportation management, among others. Barbara Gaba, president of Atlantic Cape Community College, highlighted the importance of sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs in education.
“We are able to upgrade our curriculum to ensure our students have the most up to date information as they enter the workforce. It’s important that we foster aviation education and economic development in our local area.”
“It’s critical that we’re on the cutting edge of new technology,” says Dr. Albert Lowas, Air Mobility Command chief scientist under the United States Air Force. Dr. Lowas highlighted the importance of flight testing and innovation. “This needs to be the beginning of a culture of experimentation.”
Officials with ACCC also highlighted the importance of collaboration with local aviation programs, including area high schools with aviation initiatives, in addition to the Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City.
South Jersey’s growing aviation industry has received tremendous support from both local and state leaders alike. Several officials were in attendance for Monday’s event, including state Sen. Vince Polistina. Last October, officials with the NARTP celebrated the groundbreaking of its second building, which is projected to be completed in 2025.
Lauren Moore, president of the Atlantic County Economic Alliance, says this is another step to showcase the capabilities and the resources that the ACEA and NARTP have built within seven years. “It takes time to put these pieces together,” Moore says. “None of this was done by accident; it is all been by design to demonstrate the strength of our region.”
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
