How Electra and Bristow Could Launch New Era of ‘Direct Aviation’

Helicopter operator places binding predelivery payments for manufacturing slots.

Jack Daleo

Tuesday, February 03, 2026 at 01:30 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Helicopter operator Bristow Group could be the first to introduce Electra’s hybrid-electric, ‘ultra short’ EL9 aircraft. [Credit: Electra]

Key Takeaways:

Bristow Group, a major helicopter operator, is partnering with Electra to spearhead a new "direct aviation" model utilizing hybrid-electric EL9 aircraft, aiming to offer air transport from non-traditional locations closer to where people live and work.
The Electra EL9 is an "ultra short" aircraft designed for 150-foot takeoffs/landings, combining helicopter-like accessibility (small footprint, quiet operation) with the safety and economics of a fixed-wing plane, promising significantly reduced operating costs.
Bristow has made a binding commitment for the first five EL9 delivery slots, leveraging its global operating footprint, strong safety culture, and expertise in non-airport operations to refine the aircraft's design and facilitate its global introduction.

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Houston-based helicopter operator Bristow Group primarily operates offshore oil and gas and search and rescue services for government customers.

In a few years, though, it could spearhead a new model of passenger air transport—one that does away with the constraints of airports and other traditional locations in favor of unused parking lots, rooftops, and other places closer to where passengers live and work.