Also: SkyFly’s Axe Prototype, USAF CCA, AV Expands Switchblade, DropShip Cargo Drone Air New Zealand has taken its first big step toward electric aviation, flying the US-built BETA ALIA CX300 out of Tauranga Airport as part of what the airline calls a “technical demonstrator” program. The aircraft, on a four-month lease from BETA Technologies, will tour several New Zealand cities as the carrier evaluates its performance and gets its crews situated with the new systems. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, the White House is turning its attention to the airspace above with plans for a $500 million drone program. This is aimed at helping state and local governments counter potential drone threats and keep pace with ever-advancing aviation technology. The effort centers on safeguarding airspace over the 104 soccer matches scheduled across the United States next summer. Textron has confirmed that it will be retiring its eAviation business unit… but only its name. Programs within the sector, including Pipistrel, the Nexus eVTOL, and various military technologies, seemingly remain alive and well under the company’s other five divisions. The restructuring takes effect January 4, 2026. Much of eAviation’s portfolio, including Pipistrel’s light electric aircraft, will be absorbed by Textron Aviation. All this — and MORE in today’s episode of Airborne-NextGen!!!
