Groundbreaking eSTOL Demonstrations by Electra’s EL2 Goldfinch Technology
Electra.aero’s EL2 Goldfinch technology demonstrator has successfully completed groundbreaking ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) demonstrations, proving its capability to operate from spaces as short as 150 feet. The hybrid-electric aircraft recently performed at Watertown International Airport in New York, showcasing its revolutionary blown-lift technology.
The two-seat prototype employs eight electric motors along the wing’s leading edge to achieve “blown lift” effects, enabling takeoffs at speeds as low as 35 mph. The aircraft ingeniously combines battery power for takeoff with a small turbogenerator for cruise flight and in-flight battery recharging, thus eliminating the need for ground charging infrastructure.
Electra has ambitious plans to scale this technology to a nine-passenger commercial aircraft capable of 500-mile range at 200 mph cruise speeds. With FAA certification targeted for 2028, the company currently holds pre-orders from over 30 customers for more than 1,200 aircraft, totaling over $4 billion in market demand.
Source: General Aviation News