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 leading helicopter operator, is partnering with Electra to introduce a new model of "direct aviation" using Electra's EL9 hybrid-electric aircraft.
The EL9 is designed for ultra-short takeoffs and landings (requiring only 150 feet), enabling passenger transport from non-airport locations such as parking lots, rooftops, or grass fields, closer to urban areas.
This initiative aims to provide a more accessible, quieter, and significantly more cost-effective air travel option than helicopters, combining their operational flexibility with the safety and economics of fixed-wing aircraft.
Bristow has made a binding commitment for the first five EL9 delivery slots, leveraging its global operational footprint, strong safety culture, and expertise in non-airport environments to help pilot and refine the aircraft's rollout.

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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.