Europe's first fully electric cargo airline has announced that it has overcome a major hurdle after securing funding to purchase aircraft, allowing it to begin preparations for launch in the third quarter of next year.

e-Smart Avia, a company registered in the Netherlands, unveiled its commercial brand ClearSky Airlines at the Farnborough International Airshow. The company confirmed its plans to establish a regional cargo network using five BETA Technologies ALIA CX300 electric aircraft, which will be based at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

To finance its initial fleet, e-Smart Avia entered into a partnership agreement with the leasing company SLI. This partnership provided the necessary resources to move the project forward.

ClearSky Airlines plans to operate the ALIA CX300 version with conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) on routes up to 500 km, transporting cargo up to 500 kg for clients in healthcare, life sciences, aerospace, automotive, and other industries where urgent delivery is required. The company also intends to develop electric feeder flights, connecting regional airports with major cargo hubs.

The start of commercial operations depends on regulatory approval. The first contracts with clients are expected to be signed by the end of this year. Negotiations are underway with several European and international airlines regarding potential feeder service partnerships.

Despite slot restrictions for commercial operations at Schiphol, ClearSky Airlines plans to base its aircraft in the eastern part of the airport, where a dedicated parking area and a short runway—mainly used by business jets—are available.

The company is closely monitoring discussions among European regulators about granting preferences to electric aircraft, considering their low noise levels and zero direct emissions.

The launch of ClearSky Airlines marks the next phase in the development of the project, which was previously presented under the e-Smart Avia brand. Over the past two years, the company has been organizing aircraft deliveries, securing financing, and obtaining necessary permits. Operations are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2027 with a fleet of five aircraft, followed by expansion across continental Europe and entry into the markets of the UK, the Middle East, and Northeast Asia.