Electra unveils EL9 ultra short hybrid-electric aircraft design
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 14, 2024

Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) has introduced the design of its EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft, marking a new step toward sustainable aviation. This nine-passenger piloted aircraft aims to revolutionize air travel with capabilities that eliminate the need for traditional airports and minimize emissions and noise. Following more than a year of successful flight trials with its EL2 Goldfinch two-seat prototype, Electra is advancing to the next stage of development for the EL9, demonstrating the technology's maturity for future electric aviation solutions.

The EL9's hybrid-electric propulsion system features innovative blown lift technology, enabling it to perform ultra-short takeoffs and landings within compact spaces like soccer fields - areas typically restricted to helicopters or eVTOLs - while operating at a third of the cost.

The aircraft combines fixed-wing safety and reliability, making direct regional air service possible at various locations such as small airports, grass fields, or parking lots. It provides a seamless, point-to-point travel experience for passengers and cargo, significantly reducing noise and emissions. The hybrid-electric system extends the range with in-flight battery recharging, eliminating the need for ground charging infrastructure.

"Today's reveal of the EL9 showcases the dedication of our incredible team and partners," said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. "This aircraft is more than a new design - it's the gateway to a cleaner, quieter, and more affordable future for regional travel. With the EL9, we're not just making sustainable aviation a reality, we're redefining how people and cargo move through Direct Aviation, a new category of safe and seamless travel that brings air mobility closer to where we live, work and play."

The EL9 incorporates distributed electric propulsion and blown lift technology through four independent battery packs and a compact turbine-powered generator that drives eight electric motors along the wing, creating high lift even at low airspeeds. The aircraft can perform takeoffs and landings in just 150 feet and maintain a cruising speed of 175 knots.

With a 330-nautical mile range while carrying nine passengers and baggage or 3,000 pounds of cargo, the EL9 can also achieve a maximum ferry range of 1,100 nautical miles with IFR reserves.

It is designed for certification under IFR conditions and can operate in known icing environments. Although the EL9 will feature two pilot stations, it will leverage Electra's Safe Single Pilot technology with fly-by-wire controls for precise landings by a single pilot.

Electra has already secured over 2,100 orders for the EL9 from 52 global operators, representing a market value exceeding $8 billion. The initial test flights are projected for 2027, with FAA Part 23 certification and commercial service targeted for 2029.

The aircraft's design was showcased at Electra's headquarters in Manassas, Virginia, to an audience of over 300 attendees, including aerospace industry leaders, partners, clients, government representatives, media, and guests.

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