Electra’s Goldfinch proves eSTOL capabilities in piloted test flights

In May 2024, Electra Aero’s (Manassas, Va., U.S.) hybrid-electric test aircraft, the EL-2 Goldfinch, achieved its first ultra-short short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) piloted flight. The aircraft features a custom prepreg composite fuselage.

“We’ve proven that our eSTOL aircraft has the capability to do what we said it could do — operate from spaces shorter than 300 feet,” says JP Stewart, Electra vice president and general manager. “The aircraft handling at low-speeds has been exceptional and is matching our analysis well, building confidence in the predicted capability of the nine-passenger product design. We’ll continue to develop our technologies, including the ‘thrust-by-wire’ flight control system to allow us to fly even slower on approach and further improve the STOL takeoff and landing performance in the ongoing test campaign.”

The test flights, piloted by Cody Allee, took place through April and May 2024 at the Manassas Regional Airport and Warrenton-Fauquier Airport in Virginia. The longest flight lasted 1 hour 43 minutes. During the campaign, the aircraft took off in less than 170 feet and landed in under 114 feet ground roll. It reached an altitude of 6,500 feet, and it flew as slowly as 25 knots on takeoff and landing. Data and insights gained from the flight test program will inform the design of Electra’s nine-passenger commercial eSTOL aircraft, with entry into commercial service under FAA Part 23 regulations targeted for 2028.  

Electra’s blown-lift design uses eight electric motors to increase wing lift, enabling the eSTOL aircraft to take off and land in just 1/10^th of the space needed by conventional aircraft. This enables access to locations that today only helicopters can reach. Quiet electric motors reduce noise and emissions for community-friendly operations. Hybrid-electric power provides long-range capability without the need for ground-based charging stations.