Electra and Atlas have announced an airframe agreement for the EL9 Ultra Short airplane, pairing Electra’s aircraft design with Atlas’s aerospace manufacturing expertise as the programme advances through flight test, certification, and toward scaled commercial production.
Electra is developing the EL9 Ultra Short, carrying nine passengers while taking off and landing in as little as 150 feet, the EL9 can operate from dramatically smaller spaces, enabling shorter, more direct journeys between communities rather than routing travellers via long drives or through distant, congested airports.
“Under the agreement, Atlas will manufacture and assemble EL9 airframes for Electra’s flight test and certification programme, “ said the companies in a press release. “Work is scheduled to begin this month at Atlas’ facilities, with first deliveries expected in 2027. The partnership marks a significant milestone on Electra’s path to certification and commercial entry into service, drawing on Atlas’s deep experience in aerospace manufacturing, complex aerostructures, production system development, and automated manufacturing.
In July, the FAA formally established the EL9’s certification basis, defining the framework for several industry firsts including distributed hybrid-electric propulsion, blown lift for ultra-short takeoff and landing, and advanced fly-by-wire flight controls. Electra has also entered a life-of-program development and production agreement with Safran for the TG600 turbogenerator that will power the EL9.
Electra has selected Springfield, Ohio, as the home of its first EL9 production facility. The EL9 is targeting entry into commercial service in 2030.
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Electra and Atlas Sign Airframe Agreement for EL9 Ultra Short | Electra