Aircraft
Faradair Establishes Duxford HQ for Hybrid Electric STOL
UK startup Faradair is developing the BEHA aircraft with hybrid-electric propulsion, transitioning to all-electric once technology and regulations permit.
Faradair is developing the Bio Electric Hybrid Aircraft in the UK. [Photo: Faradair]
Faradair is developing the Bio Electric Hybrid Aircraft in the UK. [Photo: Faradair]

Faradair, the UK company developing a hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing aircraft, is relocating its operation to Duxford airfield. Beginning September 1, the startup will be a tenant in the new Avtech facility being established there as a research and development hub for general aviation ventures by Cambridge University’s Gonville & Caius College on land that it owns.

The Bio Electric Hybrid Aircraft (BEHA) being developed by Faradair is due to be ready for a first flight by late 2023 or early 2024. The program will consist of three variants: the hybrid electric M1H; a pilotless M1AT model to be operated autonomously for military roles; and an all-electric E1 that is expected to be available by 2030, subject to the availability of applicable battery or hydrogen fuel cell technology.