Electra’s Ultra-Short Takeoff Aircraft Gains New Pre-Orders

Electra has secured 2,200 pre-orders for its EL9 hybrid-electric aircraft, a versatile ultra-short takeoff platform designed for regional mobility, cargo transport, and military operations on unimproved surfaces By Joe Macey / 24 Mar 2025
Electra’s Ultra-Short Takeoff Aircraft Gains New Pre-Orders
Follow AAMi

Electra has secured 2,200 pre-orders for its EL9 Ultra-Short Takeoff hybrid-electric aircraft.

The EL9 leverages Electra’s proprietary blown-lift technology and hybrid-electric propulsion system to take off and land in just 150 feet. This capability enables operators to access remote locations with minimal infrastructure, bypass strict airport noise restrictions, and unlock new opportunities in cargo transport and regional mobility.

For military applications, the EL9 offers enhanced operational flexibility, including landings on unimproved surfaces, reduced logistical costs, and the ability to support forward-deployed forces with critical supplies and ground power.

Designed to optimize both civilian and defense operations, the EL9 accommodates nine passengers or up to 3,000 pounds of cargo, delivering a range of up to 1,100 nautical miles. Its in-flight battery recharging system eliminates the need for ground charging infrastructure, ensuring seamless operations in austere environments. The aircraft’s ability to operate from unconventional locations—such as grass fields, parking lots, and repurposed heliports—expands regional connectivity, making air mobility more accessible and cost-effective than ever before.

Marc Allen, CEO of Electra, said, “Electra’s Ultra Short is the unlock for a new era of air travel – what we call Direct Aviation – that is as transformative as it’s practical. Hybrid-electric propulsion enables us to achieve what jet fuel alone can’t do; we’ve created a fixed-wing airplane that delivers the access of a helicopter with 100 times less noise, 70 percent lower cost, improved safety, and dramatically reduced emissions. The response from the global aviation industry has been tremendous. Our customers see the EL9 aircraft as a true game-changer, and they’re using its ultra-short takeoff capabilities to open the door to new routes in areas with space and noise constraints. Together, we’re enabling a fundamental leap forward in advanced air mobility.”

According to Electra, the company’s technology suite represents a leap forward in aviation, blending low noise, operational affordability, and sustainability into a single, high-performance platform built for the future of both commercial and defense aviation.

Posted by Joe Macey Edited by Joseph Macey, Editor and Copywriter and experienced journalist with an active interest in advanced air mobility. Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

ARC Aerosystems Partnership to Accelerate VTOL Introduction in Japan

AirMobility and ARC Aerosystems have signed an MoU, collaborating to expand ARC’s VTOL aircraft, including the Pegasus 3, and AAM solutions in Japan

Jul 08, 2025
Archer Completes Initial Midnight eVTOL Flight in Abu Dhabi

Archer has launched flight testing of its Midnight eVTOL in Abu Dhabi, advancing certification efforts and preparing for commercial air taxi services in the UAE

Jul 07, 2025
Skyfly Completes First Airfield-to-Airfield eVTOL Flight in Europe

Skyfly Technologies has completed what is reportedly Europe’s first airfield-to-airfield eVTOL flight using its Axe prototype, flying from Turweston to Bicester and back in a round trip

Jul 04, 2025
Eve Air Mobility Partnership to Advance eVTOL Deployment in Costa Rica

Eve Air Mobility and Aerosolutions are partnering to bring eVTOL aircraft and infrastructure to Costa Rica, advancing sustainable air travel and regional connectivity

Jul 03, 2025
Joby Advances Air Taxi Launch with Piloted Flights in Dubai

Joby Aviation has begun commercial readiness efforts in Dubai, completing piloted eVTOL flights and advancing plans to launch air taxi services by 2026

Jul 02, 2025
Wisk Collaborates on Air Taxi Infrastructure & Research in Florida

Wisk Aero has partnered with the Miami-Dade Aviation Department and the University of Miami to advance autonomous air taxi operations and supporting infrastructure in the region

Jul 01, 2025