StoryManufacturing
Electra and Atlas sign an airframe agreement for the EL9, with the first airframes due in 2027
Electra hired Atlas, an aerospace manufacturer with sites in Wichita, Park City, Phoenix, Philadelphia and Mexico, to build and assemble EL9 airframes for its flight-test and certification program. Work starts in September 2026 with first deliveries expected in 2027, and Atlas will also help design the production process for after certification.
- The number of airframes was not disclosed.
- Certification needs several test aircraft built to the final design; these airframes are those, not production units.
- The FAA formally set the EL9's certification basis, the rules it must meet, in July 2026.
- Electra targets service entry in 2030; Bristow holds the first slot for five aircraft with options on 45 more.