BETA> SPRINGFIELD, OHIO

Kapp recently provided field supervision and coordination to erect an elevated charging station for BETA Technologies at Springfield’s Beckley Municipal Airport. Burlington, Vermont-based BETA Technologies’ electric flying vehicles, also known as “advanced air mobility vehicles” or simply “air taxis,” will serve numerous local and national industries including defense, medical, and commercial.

Kapp was approached by the City of Springfield in November 2020 to act as the general contractor and construction manager for this project. Kapp broke ground in December 2020 and was responsible for installing the prefabricated containers. Situated under the 44,000-pound electrically heated charging pad are custom-designed lounge areas for pilots and crews, offices, and maintenance space, as well as short-term staff lodging. The site also houses a flight simulator to be used by BETA and Joby Aviation, both pioneers in the field of eVTOL aircraft.

Working with cargo containers was new for the Kapp team. Typically, Kapp crews construct buildings from scratch, so there was an added challenge using BETA’s prefabricated containers. The containers needed to be engineered to safely support the immense weight of the charging station, while also including windows to provide natural light in the pilot offices and lounge areas.

Placing the massive charging pad on top of the structure was also challenging, as it required two cranes and some serious coordination! The helipad was assembled on the ground to ensure it was level and was then lifted into place. With a few more adjustments to be made, the charging pad and training center will be ready for eVTOL aircraft by next month. Thanks to Kapp Project Managers and Project Superintendents Springfield is leading the way in the electric flying vehicle industry.