eVTOLs have been making waves in recent headlines, but there’s more to the electric aircraft scene than just flying taxis. The ability to take off and land on tiny runways opens up a whole new world of possibilities for electric aviation.
One such example is Lockheed Martin-backed Electra’s hybrid-electric STOL (Short Take-off and Landing) aircraft. Set to enter the market soon, this plane will accommodate nine passengers, a pilot, and luggage, covering distances of up to 500 miles (805 km) at a cruising speed of approximately 200 mph (322 km/h).
Electra’s Innovative eSTOL Aircraft Design
Its innovative design incorporates eight electric props along the leading edge of the wings and large flaps on the trailing edges, creating a potent “blown lift” aerodynamic effect that facilitates take-off at a mere 35 mph (56 km/h).
Moreover, Electra’s eSTOL aircraft can swiftly reach take-off speed, enabling operation from runways as small as 300 x 100 ft (92 x 31 m) or potentially even building rooftops. Although not as versatile as eVTOLs, it offers remarkable flexibility, requiring only one-tenth the space of a standard runway.
Electra’s Milestone Achievement in Pre-Orders
Recently, Electra disclosed that it surpassed 2,000 preorders for its flagship eSTOL design, a booking valued by the manufacturer at over $8 billion upon fulfillment—eight times the annual revenue of Cessna.
This achievement occurred on January 19th, when JetSetGo Aviation Services Private Ltd. (“JetSetGo”) placed firm orders for 50 aircraft. JetSetGo, recognized as India’s premier marketplace for private jet and helicopter charters, operates the country’s largest on-demand aircraft fleet.
This surpasses the largest pre-sales figure in the eVTOL sector held by Vertical Aerospace, which has secured pre-orders for 1,500 aircraft, totaling over $5 billion.
