Volato Group Tests Bitcoin Mining in Aircraft, Starting with Ground Operations

• Cessna CJ’s stable power systems enable mining hardware integration, aiming to monetize aircraft downtime during maintenance or idle periods.
• Aviation mining faces skepticism over fuel costs and profitability, yet draws interest for diversifying crypto’s energy-intensive operational models.

Volato Group, a publicly traded aviation company, has initiated Bitcoin mining operations as part of a plan to integrate cryptocurrency production into aircraft systems. The firm began ground-based mining trials in Q1 2025, a preliminary step before attempting in-flight mining using modified Cessna Citation CJ jets. This approach aims to add Bitcoin to corporate reserves while exploring aviation-based mining solutions.

The company selected the Cessna Citation CJ series due to its widespread availability—over 2,100 units operate globally—and stable electrical systems. Volato stated the aircraft’s consistent power output supports mining hardware without disrupting flight operations. Modifications will comply with aviation certification standards, ensuring operational safety. Ground tests will assess heat management, energy consumption, and hardware durability before airborne trials.

CEO Matt Liotta described the initiative as experimental but strategic. “Starting on land allows us to refine processes before moving to the air” he said. Volato’s patented mining technology remains undisclosed, though the firm claims it minimizes interference with aircraft functions. No timeline exists for in-flight deployment, but the CJ series will serve as the primary test platform.

The move aligns with broader industry trends. Rising energy costs and regulatory pressures have pushed Bitcoin miners to seek unconventional methods. Other companies use flared gas, hydropower, or stranded energy, but aviation-based mining is untested.

Volato’s model could leverage aircraft downtime, such as during maintenance or between flights, to generate revenue. However, scalability depends on overcoming technical hurdles like weight distribution and power sustainability during flights.

“While we are still in the early stages and have not yet begun mining in the air, the launch of ground operations is an important step in the development of our strategy. We believe the Citation CJ is the ideal platform to explore the intersection between aviation and cryptocurrency mining,” said Matt Liotta, CEO of Volato.

A Perryman Group report, released concurrently, notes Bitcoin mining created over 31,000 U.S. jobs in 2024, highlighting the sector’s economic impact. While Volato’s project is nascent, established miners have expressed curiosity about aviation applications. Critics question viability, citing aviation fuel costs and hardware wear from vibration.

Volato’s stock reacted neutrally to the announcement, suggesting investor caution. The company operates a fleet of HondaJet HA-420 aircraft for private charters, unrelated to the mining initiative.

Technical teams will monitor ground tests for six months, analyzing profitability metrics. Initial calculations suggest mining during idle aircraft hours could offset fuel expenses if Bitcoin prices exceed $100,000. Current mining economics remain marginal, with industry averages requiring sub-$0.05/kWh energy rates—far below commercial aviation fuel costs.

Regulatory approvals pose another challenge. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must certify any permanent aircraft modifications, a process that could delay deployment. Volato has not engaged with the FAA publicly but stated compliance is a “top priority.”

Skeptics argue the project prioritizes publicity over practicality. “Aviation mining sounds flashy, but the math doesn’t add up yet,” said energy analyst Clara Merton. Volato counters that incremental revenue, even if small, justifies experimentation.

As ground tests proceed, the aviation and crypto industries watch closely. Success could inspire niche mining applications; failure may deter similar ventures. For now, Volato’s sky-high ambitions remain tethered to terrestrial trials.