Electra completes fixed-wing landing at Lower Manhattan heliport

The demonstration is the latest in a series of flights for the EL2 designed to showcase "Direct Aviation," a new regional travel network designed by Electra with the goal of connecting passengers to their destinations while avoiding congested highways and airport hubs. The EL2 previously completed test flights at Columbus Street Terminal in Charleston, South Carolina, and Bader Field, formerly Atlantic City Municipal Airport, in New Jersey. By utilizing existing helicopter infrastructure rather than traditional runways, Electra estimates its service could save travelers nearly four hours on trips between New York City and Washington, D.C., or Boston.

Founded in 2019, Electra aims to provide affordable regional air travel without the need for large airports, high emissions, or excessive noise. The company’s proprietary "blown-lift" design, with propellers mounted along the leading edge of each wing,allows the hybrid-electric aircraft to generate significant lift at low speeds. During the New York City demonstration, the EL2 approached at just 30 mph, allowing it to safely land and take off within a space of only 150 feet, combining helicopter-like access with the lower operating costs and higher payloads of fixed-wing aircraft.

The demonstration took place in partnership with Skyports Infrastructure, the operator of Downtown Skyport. “Electra’s historic flight today marks a significant milestone for Downtown Skyport and Advanced Air Mobility in NYC, demonstrating how new aircraft technologies can unlock entirely new uses for existing aviation infrastructure,” said Robbie Ladov, general manager of U.S. heliports and vertiports for Skyports Infrastructure. 

While the EL2 serves as a smaller-scale, two-seat demonstrator, Electra is using data from its flights to advance its commercial EL9 aircraft toward full certification and commercial service. Designed to carry up to nine passengers, the EL9 has drawn some market interest, with the company securing over 2,000 letters of intent from more than 60 operators around the world. 

Electra will continue demonstrations as it works towards certification of the EL9, which it hopes will enter into service by 2030. Learn more about Electra and its mission online.