Greece is poised to become one of the first countries to introduce electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with operations set to begin in the summer of 2026. The Logothetis Group, in collaboration with Aria Hotels, plans to use the Alia-250 aircraft manufactured by Beta Technologies, an American company specializing in advanced electric aviation.
The Alia-250, which can accommodate five passengers and a pilot, is designed for eco-friendly travel. It boasts a range of 250 nautical miles and can be fully charged within an hour. These eVTOLs are seen as a game-changer for tourism, enabling rapid travel to remote locations that are currently time-consuming to reach. For instance, a journey from Athens to Kimolos, which currently takes up to seven hours and costs approximately €200, will be reduced to just 45 minutes by eVTOL at a cost of about €750—a price still significantly cheaper than a helicopter.
Aria Hotels plans to use these eVTOLs to enhance guest experiences by offering seamless travel to and from its properties. In addition to eVTOLs, the company is evaluating the use of electric conventional take-off and landing (CTOLS) aircraft to operate from existing airports.
To support the operations, Aria Hotels and Beta Technologies will establish specialized infrastructure, including Vertiports, at strategic locations. These facilities will enable the landing of eVTOLs in popular but hard-to-reach areas such as Mani and Zagori, as well as private destinations like Pegasus Island in the Gulf of Petalion.
The Alia-250 has already achieved significant regulatory milestones, including Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for pilot training. The next steps involve full certification by the FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), paving the way for its integration into commercial operations in Greece.
This innovative project not only highlights Greece's commitment to sustainable tourism but also positions the country at the forefront of electric aviation. With enhanced mobility and reduced travel times, flying taxis are set to transform the way tourists explore Greece’s unique destinations.
