Electra Demonstrates eSTOL Aircraft Capabilities at NASA Langley

- by Richard Pettibone
The flight of Electra’s EL-2 Goldfinch technology demonstrator aircraft showcased the eSTOL aircraft’s use of distributed electric propulsion with blown lift technology.  Image – JP Stewart/Electra

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.

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A military history enthusiast, Richard began his career at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet became central to defense research, he helped design the company’s Forecast Intelligence Center and now coordinates the FI Market Recap newsletters for clients. He also manages two blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, which covers defense systems and international security issues, and Flight Plan, focused on commercial aviation and space systems.

For more than 30 years, Richard has authored Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International), providing detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database tracking all companies involved in programs covered by the FI library. Richard currently serves as Manager of the Information Services Group (ISG), which develops outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.

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About Richard Pettibone

A military history enthusiast, Richard began his career at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet became central to defense research, he helped design the company’s Forecast Intelligence Center and now coordinates the FI Market Recap newsletters for clients. He also manages two blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, which covers defense systems and international security issues, and Flight Plan, focused on commercial aviation and space systems. For more than 30 years, Richard has authored Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International), providing detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database tracking all companies involved in programs covered by the FI library. Richard currently serves as Manager of the Information Services Group (ISG), which develops outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.

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