Golden Triangle Regional Airport (GTR) has partnered with BETA, an electric aerospace company, and Avflight, a global fixed-base operator, to install and commission the first-ever electric aviation charging station in the state of Mississippi.
On Monday, BETA Technologies flew its all-electric ALIA aircraft into Golden Triangle Regional Airport, conducting the inaugural charge on the newly commissioned airside charger.
BETA’s charging stations are multimodal and interoperable, capable of powering electric aircraft and ground vehicles alike.
Matt Dowell, Executive Director says: “The Golden Triangle Regional Airport is excited to announce the opening of Mississippi’s first electric aircraft charger.
“This new installation is a significant step toward advancing the airport and region’s aviation infrastructure and supporting the growth of electric aircraft technology.”
Joe Max Higgins, Executive Director of the Golden Triangle Development LINK, adds, “The Golden Triangle region is at the forefront of economic development in the Southeast.
“BETA’s decision to place the state’s first electric charging station for aircraft at the Golden Triangle Regional Airport is an indication that we are bringing leading technology to our state.”
GTR has installed one Level 3 Fast-Charger located inside the fence (air side), which will primarily be used by electric aircraft, and one Level 2 Charger located outside the fence (car side), which will primarily be used by members of the public who drive electric vehicles.
With this new infrastructure, the airport is well-positioned to support the electric transportation future.
Nate Ward, BETA’s Head of Network Development states: “As electric transportation continues to grow, and electric aviation specifically moves closer to market operations, charging infrastructure will only become more and more important.
“We’re excited to have partners like Golden Triangle Regional and Avflight, whose foresight and innovative approach are leading the entire state of Mississippi forward.
“As we continue to deploy our chargers in key markets, and as the entire industry continues to grow, these chargers will help accelerate connectivity across the country.”
Garrett Hain, Avflight’s Vice President of Finance and Treasurer says: “We are proud to have collaborated with airport leadership and BETA Technologies to bring the latest in sustainable energy to GTR.
“By offering a fast commercial charging station on the Avflight ramp, along with a dual port electric vehicle charger for the parking lot, we’re able to host an array of sustainably-powered vehicles, including industry-leading options, like BETA’s ALIA-250 Aircraft.
“It’s not only an investment in our FBO and airport, but also an investment in our community and environment.”