Electra's EL2 hybrid-electric blown-lift demonstrator makes its first flight

Electra/EL9

Electra's EL-2 Goldfinch completed all-electric flight on November 11 and hybrid-electric flight on November 19, 2023, from Manassas Regional Airport. The two-seat eSTOL demonstrator uses eight electric motors to increase wing lift, enabling ultra-short takeoffs and landings with dramatically reduced noise and emissions.

• EL-2 Goldfinch world's first blown-lift aircraft using distributed electric propulsion and hybrid-electric system
• Pilot Cody Allee completed 23-minute hybrid flight November 19, reaching 3,200 feet altitude, covering ~30 miles
• Later 2024 testing achieved takeoff in under 170 feet and landing in under 114 feet ground roll
• Eight electric motors significantly increase wing lift to enable ultra-short-distance operations from spaces under 300 feet