Safran’s Turbogenerator Will Propel Electra’s Hybrid EL9

TG600 helicopter engine will be the ‘heart’ of the aircraft’s hybrid propulsion system.

Jack Daleo

Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 09:00 AM ET

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Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Electra aims to certify the nine-passenger EL9 in 2030. [Credit: Electra]

Key Takeaways:

Electra has finalized a "life-of-program" agreement with Safran Helicopter Engines to produce TG600 turbogenerators for its flagship EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric eSTOL aircraft.
The TG600 turbogenerator is crucial for the nine-passenger EL9's ability to achieve an ultra-short 150-foot ground roll, enabling flights from unconventional "access points" like rooftops and parking lots.
Projected for a 2030 entry into service, the EL9 has garnered approximately 2,200 provisional orders, positioning it as a significant development in advanced air mobility.

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Hybrid-electric aircraft developer Electra on Wednesday announced a “life-of-program” agreement covering the production of turbogenerators for its flagship EL9 Ultra Short.

The EL9, designed for operations with only a 150-foot ground roll, will be powered by Safran Helicopter Engines’ TG600, which is built around the latter’s Arrano gas turboshaft engine. Electra said it placed an initial order for 250 turbogenerators.