Electra.Aero Successfully Flies its EL-2 Goldfinch eSTOL Demonstrator

There are more solutions than obstacles, Nicolas Zart

We’re excited to hear how Electra has successfully shown that its hybrid-electric aircraft ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) demonstrator aircraft, the EL-2 Goldfinch is a viable advanced air mobility (AAM) player. This milestone achievement solidifies Electra’s position as a leading player in the industry. We’ve known and worked with Marc Ausman with Airflow before it merged with Electra to form Electra.Aero, to how regional air mobility and eSTOL could very well be the first AAM aircraft to operate, and so much more. Electra plans to offer its 9-passenger commercial eSTOL aircraft under FAA Part 23 by 2028.

Let’s take a step back and understand what makes this achievement so significant.

Electra’s Unique Blown-Lift eSTOL Design

Electra’s innovative blown-lift design sets them apart. By using eight electric motors mounted to the wings, they create extra lift under the wings through extended flaps, enabling shorter takeoffs and slower landings. This technology allows the aircraft to operate from just 10% of the ground roll space required by conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft. Not only does this open up previously inaccessible locations, but it also reduces noise and emissions with its quieter electric motors.

The EL-2 Goldfinch’s test flights, conducted between April and May 2024 at Virginia’s Manassas Regional Airport and Warrenton-Fauquier Airport, showcased its impressive capabilities. The aircraft took off in under 170 ft and landed in under 114 ft, flying at a slow and steady 25 kts on takeoff and landing. At 6,500 feet, the Goldfinch demonstrated exceptional handling and performance, matching Electra’s predictions.

According to JP Stewart, Electra Vice President and General Manager: “Today’s milestone is an incredible achievement as we’ve proven that our eSTOL aircraft can do what we said it could do – operate from spaces shorter than 300 feet, … 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. We’ll continue to develop our technologies, including the ‘thrust-by-wire’ flight control system to allow us to fly even slower on approach and further improve the STOL takeoff and landing performance in the ongoing test campaign.”

The Benefits of eSTOL in AAM

eSTOL aircraft, like the EL-2 Goldfinch, offer several advantages for the AAM industry. They can access shorter runways, opening up a variety of operations and serving locations that were previously out of reach. The quieter electric motors reduce noise pollution, making them ideal for urban and rural environments. Additionally, the hybrid-electric powertrain provides improved performance and longer-range operations compared to pure-battery aircraft.

Electra’s Journey: From Airflow to Electra.aero

Electra.aero was formed through the merger of Airflow and Electra, bringing together the expertise of Marc Alsman and his team. With their combined knowledge and expertise, they created a new era of regional air mobility. Their goal is to offer a 9-passenger commercial eSTOL aircraft under FAA Part 23 by 2028, and with each successful test flight, they are one step closer to making this a reality.

The Future of eSTOL: Making a Case

There’s a strong case to be made for eSTOL aircraft in the AAM industry. Their well-understood design makes certification easier, and they can carry greater loads using very short runways. With their impressive performance and reduced environmental impact, eSTOL aircraft are becoming increasingly desirable for a wide range of operations.

Electra’s Press release: https://www.electra.aero/news/electras-test-aircraft-achieves-first-ultra-short-estol-flights