Electra and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a life-of-program development and production agreement for the TG600 turbogenerator, marking a major milestone in the development of Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft, which is targeted to enter commercial service in 2030.
The agreement formalises a partnership that began with a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 and includes an initial order for 250 TG600 turbogenerators, with production expected to scale in line with future aircraft demand.
Under the agreement, the 600-kW TG600 turbogenerator will serve as the core of the EL9’s hybrid-electric propulsion system. Developed by Safran Helicopter Engines, the system is based on the company’s Arrano engine platform, which delivers an 18% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the previous generation of engines. The turbogenerator also integrates two GENeUS electric generators supplied by Safran Electrical & Power, combining gas turbine efficiency with advanced electric propulsion technologies.
Safran recently completed the first bench test of the flight-ready TG600 prototype at its Bordes facility, supporting the aircraft’s upcoming flight-test programme.
Electra’s EL9 is designed around hybrid-electric propulsion and blown-lift technology, enabling take-offs and landings in as little as 150 feet. The aircraft is intended to operate from compact locations that have traditionally been inaccessible to commercial aviation, creating new opportunities for regional connectivity and point-to-point air mobility.
Marc Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Electra, said the agreement represents a defining milestone for the company and the broader advanced air mobility sector.
“This agreement is a defining step forward for Electra and for the future of advanced air mobility. Safran’s technical leadership in hybrid-electric propulsion and long-term partnership are critical as we bring the EL9 Ultra Short aircraft to market and unlock a new model of direct flight,” Allen said.
Cédric Goubet, Chief Executive Officer of Safran Helicopter Engines, said the contract officially launches the company’s turbogenerator business while expanding its portfolio beyond traditional turboshaft engines.
“The signing of this contract marks a major milestone in our collaboration with Electra. By combining our engine expertise with Safran Electrical & Power’s capabilities, we believe we have developed one of the most advanced and efficient hybrid-electric propulsion solutions in its class for next-generation air mobility,” Goubet said.
Electra has already submitted the EL9 to the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for Part 23 type certification and expects the aircraft’s first flight in late 2027 or early 2028. Earlier this year, the company also secured its first delivery position through a pre-delivery payment agreement with Bristow Group, reinforcing commercial interest in the programme.
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According to Electra, its Direct Aviation market outlook forecasts demand for 12,000 to 16,000 aircraft during the first decade of operations, reflecting the growing need for regional air mobility solutions that bridge the gap between ground transport and conventional commercial aviation.
The partnership highlights the accelerating momentum behind hybrid-electric propulsion technologies as aerospace manufacturers and engine developers work to bring more sustainable and operationally flexible aircraft to market, while creating new opportunities for future maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) support in the emerging advanced air mobility ecosystem.
