Investing.com — Electra announced Wednesday it has signed a production agreement with France’s Safran Helicopter Engines for turbogenerators as the hybrid-electric aircraft startup works toward certification.
The deal includes an initial order for 250 TG600 turbogenerators, which will allow production to scale with demand for the EL9, the company’s nine-passenger Ultra Short aircraft. The EL9 is expected to make its first flight in late 2027 or early 2028.
The agreement arrives as advanced air mobility companies secure suppliers for critical aircraft systems and pursue regulatory approval before commercial launches.
Electra, which is backed by Lockheed Martin Ventures and Honeywell, was selected earlier this year for the Trump administration’s pilot program alongside Archer (NASDAQ:ACHR) and Joby (NYSE:JOBY). The program aims to speed up deployment of flying air taxis in the U.S.
The deal with Safran expands a partnership first announced in 2023 and supports development and certification efforts for the EL9 aircraft, which is targeted to enter service in 2030.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.
