Electra.aero Inc. successfully demonstracted its EL-2 Goldfinch hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) technology demonstrator aircraft at NASA’s Langley Research Center on July 15th. The achievement marks the first flight of an electric aircraft with a pilot onboard at NASA Langley.
Electra and NASA are collaborating on several aviation-related projects. Under a NASA Space Act Agreement, the companies are jointly conducting research, demonstrations, and information sharing in the field of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Additionally, Electra is working on a NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project to develop a solar-electric, high-altitude, long-endurance aircraft known as a High-Altitude Platform Station (HAPS). The company has also contributed to a NASA study exploring the potential of Regional Air Mobility (RAM) to improve transportation connectivity.
The demonstration highlighted the aircraft’s use of distributed electric propulsion (DEP) and blown lift technology, enabling short takeoffs and landings of under 150 feet. The aircraft’s hybrid-electric system was demonstrated, showcasing potential for longer range flights, while its battery-electric mode offers quiet, community-friendly operations. Earlier in the day, the aircraft completed a 120-mile flight from Electra’s Manassas, Virginia facility to NASA in Hampton, Virginia using its hybrid propulsion system.
Electra is developing a nine-passenger eSTOL production aircraft designed to replace short and medium-distance car travel, up to 500 miles, with faster, quieter, and more environmentally friendly air transportation. This aircraft has the potential to significantly reduce travel times between locations like Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads, offering a 35-minute flight alternative to the current 2.5-hour drive.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet grew in importance as a research tool, he helped design the company's Forecast Intelligence Center and currently coordinates the EMarket Alert newsletters for clients. Richard also manages social media efforts, including two new blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, covering defense systems and international issues, and Flight Plan, which focuses on commercial aviation and space systems. For over 30 years, Richard has authored the Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International) services. The two books provide detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database that tracks all the contractors involved in the programs covered in the FI library. More recently he was appointed Manager, Information Services Group (ISG), a new unit that encompasses developing outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
