GE Aerospace is making a significant investment in electric aviation company Beta Technologies. The two companies are teaming up to build a hybrid-electric turbogenerator for next-generation aircraft. As part of a strategic deal announced Thursday, GE will also invest $300 million, pending regulatory approval.
This new partnership emerges as hybrid solutions gain momentum in the advanced air mobility space, a term describing the next generation of aviation concepts like eVTOL and hydrogen. Aircraft manufacturers are increasingly turning to engine hybrids that combine traditional turbines with electric power to extend flight time or increase potential payload.
The partnership is notable. GE Aerospace is a giant in the jet and turboprop engine world, while Beta is a startup known for its electric aircraft platform. Together, they bring complementary experience to the project. The new turbogenerator will leverage GE’s existing infrastructure and components from its widely used engine family, while Beta will contribute its expertise in high-performance electric propulsion. GE and Beta state their hybrid system will provide greater range, increased payload capacity, and better overall aircraft performance.
Alongside this new partnership, Beta is continuing its path to certification for its Alia aircraft. This includes both a conventional take-off and landing variant and an electric vertical take-off and landing variant. If the deal is approved, it will bring Beta’s total funding to $1.45 billion. GE will then join a group of institutional investors that includes Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund and Fidelity Management & Research Company. Upon approval, GE will also gain the right to designate a director to Beta’s board, a further signal that the legacy engine maker is seriously committed to the rise of hybrid-electric architectures.