Electra has selected Safran's TG600 turbogenerator to power its EL9 hybrid-electric aircraft under a production agreement that also includes an initial order for 250 units.
The agreement formalizes a partnership announced in 2023 and establishes the TG600 as the propulsion system for the nine-seat EL9, which Electra expects to certify under FAA Part 23 regulations before entering service in 2030.
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The TG600 combines a gas turbine with electric generators to produce 600kW of electrical power. Safran is developing the system from its Arrano helicopter engine and will integrate two GENeUS electric generators supplied by Safran Electrical & Power. The company recently completed the first ground test of the new propulsion system.
Electra's EL9 combines hybrid-electric propulsion with blown-lift technology, allowing the aircraft to take off and land in about 150ft (46m). The company says the design could operate from sites that are too small for conventional regional aircraft, reducing the need for traditional airport infrastructure.
The startup plans to begin flight testing in late 2027 or early 2028. Earlier this year, Bristow Group secured the first production position for the EL9 through a pre-delivery payment agreement that includes binding commercial terms, subject to certification.
Electra has attracted backing from investors including Lockheed Martin Ventures, Honeywell and Safran. The company also says it has received more than 2,200 letters of intent from commercial customers, although those do not represent firm aircraft orders.
