Electra will invest $850 million to build its first production facility for the hybrid-electric EL9 Ultra Short aircraft in Springfield, Ohio, where the company plans to manufacture up to 800 aircraft annually in the long term and create nearly 2,000 jobs.
The aircraft developer selected a 39-hectare site at AirPark Ohio, adjacent to Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport, following an evaluation of more than 140 potential locations. Planning for the project will begin immediately, with construction scheduled to start in 2027.
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Production Capacity to Expand in Phases
Electra said the factory will initially be capable of producing up to 400 aircraft per year, with annual capacity expected to increase to 800 units during a later expansion.
The company cited the site’s aviation infrastructure, testing capabilities and proximity to aerospace research facilities as key factors in its selection.
Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Design
The EL9 is a nine-seat fixed-wing aircraft powered by a hybrid-electric propulsion system.
Unlike electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the EL9 uses conventional take-off and landing while employing blown-lift technology to operate from very short runways. Eight electric motors accelerate airflow over the wings and flaps to increase lift, allowing take-off in approximately 46 metres, according to Electra.
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The propulsion system combines batteries with a turbogenerator. Batteries provide power primarily during take-off and landing, while the turbogenerator supplies electricity during cruise flight.
Electra targets a cruising speed of 324 km/h and a ferry range of nearly 2,040 kilometres, including reserves. The aircraft can also be configured to carry up to 1.36 tonnes of cargo instead of nine passengers.
The company is developing the TG600 turbogenerator with Safran Helicopter Engines under an initial agreement covering 250 units.
Certification and Market Plans
The EL9 is currently undergoing development and has been submitted to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for type certification under Part 23 regulations.
Electra expects the aircraft’s first flight to take place in late 2027 or early 2028.
The company said Bristow Group will serve as the launch customer and reported receiving more than 2,200 letters of intent from over 60 potential customers.
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Electra sees potential applications for the EL9 in regional passenger transport, cargo services, military logistics and humanitarian operations.
Infrastructure and Market Outlook
Electra’s manufacturing expansion comes as investment in electric aviation infrastructure continues in the United States. Other industry initiatives are focused on expanding charging networks for fully battery-electric aircraft, while Electra’s hybrid-electric approach is intended to provide longer operating range without relying solely on charging infrastructure.
The company said commercial deployment will depend on achieving FAA certification and converting customer interest into firm aircraft orders.