FutureFlight
Electra Pursues Applications For Its eSTOL Aircraft in Australia
The U.S.-based manufacturer is partnering with advanced air mobility infrastructure developer Skyportz to explore the potential for urban and regional services carrying passengers and freight.
Electra eSTOL
Electra is targetting its eSTOL aircraft at new urban and regional air services in Australia. (IMage: Electra.aero)

Electra.aero is setting its sights on the Australian market for its new eSTOL aircraft, announcing a partnership with Melbourne-based ground infrastructure developer Skyportz. Under an agreement announced this week, the two companies will collaborate to pave the way for urban and regional passenger and freight operations.

The U.S.-based manufacturer views Australia, with its dispersed population centers, as a key target market for its hybrid-electric eSTOL model, which is being designed to operate from spaces as small as 300 feet by 100 feet to enable flights directly into city centers or logistics facilities. The fixed-wing aircraft has eight electric motors and propellers, plus a turbogenerator that can recharge the batteries during cruise flight, avoiding the need for charging on the ground.