In the grand halls of the Utah State Capitol, a moment of history unfolded Tuesday, January 28 as 47G | Utah Aerospace & Defense (47G) and industry-leading aircraft manufacturer, BETA Technologies, signed a historic agreement that creates an opportunity to bring electric aircraft and charging stations to Utah. Letters of support for the agreement were signed by 47G partners the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO). This agreement signaled the launch of an ambitious initiative to transform transportation in Utah and establish the state as a global leader in advanced air mobility.
The signing ceremony wasn’t just another handshake deal; it was a declaration of intent to chart a bold new course for how people and goods move across Utah. Governor Cox captured the sentiment, saying, “Utah is at the epicenter of cutting-edge innovations in the commercial aviation industry that will play a critical role in Utah’s economic future…We are working to implement an advanced air mobility strategy that provides Utahns more transportation choices, improves air quality through the use of clean energy technologies, and enhances access to jobs, education and recreational opportunities.”
The Vision of Project Alta
At the heart of this initiative is the Air Logistics Transportation Alliance, better known as Project Alta. The collaborative public-private partnership is designed to bring air mobility to life in Utah, leveraging the state’s entrepreneurial spirit and existing aerospace expertise to make the vision a reality.
“This partnership brings together organizations who all share the vision and collective resources to move Utah into a leading position nationally,” said Aaron Starks, 47G president and CEO. “Air mobility will eventually change the way people commute, receive life-saving medical supplies and transport parcels and packages with greater efficiency.”
The State of Utah plays a critical role in ensuring that air mobility seamlessly integrates with Utah’s existing transportation network. Recognizing the need for innovative mobility solutions, Governor Cox allocated $2 million for aircraft charging stations in his Fiscal Year 2026 budget. If approved by the Utah Legislature, UDOT would oversee a competitive procurement process to select a vendor to install charging infrastructure at key airports across the state. UDOT
Executive Director Carlos Braceras highlighted the necessity of forward-thinking transportation strategies, emphasizing that as Utah’s population grows, “we move people — and the things they need — using more than just roads.”
The Future of Mobility
Air mobility represents a $1.5 trillion global market by 2040, and Utah is uniquely poised to lead this transformation. Companies such as Zipline, Hexcel, Electric Power Systems and Albany Engineered Composites are already contributing to the growing ecosystem with innovations in drone delivery, carbon fiber manufacturing, battery systems and aircraft components.
One of Project Alta’s key collaborators, BETA Technologies, has set the industry standard with its groundbreaking electric aircraft, such as the ALIA VTOL. Capable of carrying five passengers or 1,250 pounds of cargo with zero emissions, BETA’s aircraft exemplify sustainability in aviation. Its interoperable charging systems for air and ground vehicles are equally transformative, paving the way for an efficient, scalable air mobility network statewide.
A Statewide Approach
The agreement sets the framework for creating this network in time for the 2034 Winter Olympic Games. It outlines plans to establish at least five initial flight operation locations across Utah, procure electric aircraft, and develop interoperable charging stations for both vehicles in the air and on the ground. The strategy also includes building a statewide electric charging network, forecasting flight operations and engaging communities to ensure Utahns are part of the process.
Why Utah, Why Now?
Utah’s aerospace and defense industry already contributes to 20% of the state’s economy. With Project Alta, the state is primed to amplify this impact. From job creation to attracting investment, the initiative will elevate Utah’s economy while championing sustainability by reducing emissions and transitioning to clean, electric-powered transportation.
“This partnership is the first of its kind in the world and positions Utah ahead of the curve in the race to air mobility,” said Starks. “It’s about more than transportation—it’s about building a sustainable future and creating opportunities for generations to come.”
But the project isn’t just about economic growth—it’s about transportation. This initiative ensures mobility solutions are tailored to meet the needs of Utah communities, from the bustling streets of Salt Lake City to the quiet corners of rural towns. Air mobility will revolutionize access to critical services, reduce transportation barriers and create stronger connections between communities.
Beyond convenience, Project Alta is committed to sustainability. By transitioning to electric-powered aircraft, Utah will drastically reduce carbon emissions, cutting reliance on traditional fossil fuels. These eco-friendly innovations promise to protect the state’s stunning landscapes while fostering cleaner, greener communities.
Making the Vision a Reality
Imagine a Utah where a journey from Salt Lake City to Provo takes minutes, and where businesses thrive with faster, more efficient logistics. Air mobility ushers in a promising future where life-saving medicine is delivered directly to your doorstep and where rural communities receive critical medical supplies in record time, fresh groceries arrive sustainably via electric-powered aircraft and families are connected from Logan to St. George through a seamless, efficient transportation network.
Project Alta promises to turn that vision into reality. With the signing of the agreement, Utah takes a decisive leap forward, blending innovation with ambition to set a global standard. And as the world watches during the 2034 Winter Olympic Games, Utah will stand as a beacon of innovation, showing how transformative transportation can elevate both a state and its people.