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U.S. Military Gets First Look at Ultra Short Aircraft

Manufacturer Electra performs demonstration flights for the military under a $85 million contract with the U.S. Air Force.

Monday, September 23, 2024 at 02:44 PM ET

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Electra’s hybrid-electric, ultra short aircraft lifts off for a demonstration flight from Felker Army Airfield (KFAF) at Joint Base Langley-Eustis (KLFI) in Virginia. [Courtesy: Electra]

Key Takeaways:

Electra successfully demonstrated its hybrid-electric EL-2 Goldfinch prototype, an ultra-short takeoff and landing (ESTOL) aircraft, to the U.S. military.
The Goldfinch is seen as a potential game-changer for military logistics, tactical insertions, and medical evacuations, capable of operating from austere locations with minimal runway requirements.
Key benefits include significantly lower operating costs and fuel consumption compared to helicopters, quieter operation, and the ability to function as a mobile power generator.

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The U.S. military this week got its first look at a hybrid-electric aircraft designed to take off and land in areas as small as a soccer field.

Ultra short aircraft manufacturer Electra on Monday announced that it completed successful demonstration flights of its EL-2 Goldfinch prototype at Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico (KNYG) and Felker Army Airfield (KFAF) at Joint Base Langley-Eustis (KLFI) in Virginia. U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel were present for the demonstrations, which were the first Electra has performed for the military, the firm told FLYING.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.