Electra.aero has achieved its first ultra-short flight operations of its piloted blown-lift hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) demonstrator aircraft, the EL-2 Goldfinch.
""We've proven that our eSTOL aircraft has the capability to do what we said it could do - operate from space shorter than 300 feet,"" said Electra vice president and general manager JP Stewart. ""The aircraft handling at low-speeds has been exceptional and is matching our analysis well, building confidence in the predicted capability of the 9-passenger product design.""
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esTykmreHuQ[/embed]
The test flights, piloted by Cody Allee, took place through April and May 2024 at the Manassas Regional Airport and Warrenton-Fauquier Airport in Virginia. The longest flight lasted 1 hour 43 minutes.
Data and insights gained from the flight test program will inform the design of Electra's 9-passenger commercial eSTOL aircraft, with entry into commercial service under FAA Part 23 regulations targeted for 2028.
Electra's eSTOL achieves first ultra-short takeoff and landing
