Bye Aerospace’s eFlyer 2 Receives FAA Approval, Sets Stage for Upcoming Flight Tests
In a significant advancement for sustainable aviation, Colorado-based startup Bye Aerospace has been granted a Special Airworthiness Certificate by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its all-electric two-seat trainer, the eFlyer 2. This approval paves the way for the aircraft to commence its much-anticipated flight test program.
The FAA carried out an exhaustive inspection at Centennial Airport (KAPA) near Denver. The review encompassed the eFlyer 2’s airframe, electric propulsion system (a Safran ENGINeUS 100B1 motor rated at 125 kW / ~167 hp), instruments, and all other operational systems prior to issuing the certificate. Bye Aerospace concluded the structural build of the aircraft in July 2026, after months of stringent structural load testing and propulsion system validation using a truck-mounted test rig affectionately referred to as “The Beast.”
Rod Zastrow, CEO of Bye Aerospace, attributed this milestone to the unwavering commitment of his team. He highlighted that the company has been working closely with the FAA since 2016 to progress the certification framework for electric aircraft. The company now aims to initiate a phased flight test program from Centennial Airport.
Given that combined orders and letters of intent for the 2-seat eFlyer 2 and 4-seat eFlyer 4 already surpass 1,100 aircraft, the stakes are indeed high. The eFlyer 2, specifically designed for the flight training market, is expected to provide up to 3.5 hours of flight duration on a single charge. This offers flight schools a significantly quieter, lower-operating-cost alternative to traditional piston trainers.
Source: AvBrief – Bye Aerospace Gains Special Airworthiness Certificate for eFlyer 2