Bristow Group, the global provider of vertical flight solutions to government and civil organizations, and Electra.aero, a pioneering developer of clean and efficient aviation technology solutions, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to pursue a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) and purchase agreement under which the two firms will cooperate on the technical development and certification, as well as marketing and future operations of Electra’s hybrid-electric short take-off and landing (eSTOL) aircraft, with an expected volume of 50 aircraft. Future electric air transport service to focus on middle-mile logistics for retail distribution.
The two companies will collaborate on developing a full range of safety and operational features to ensure the new eSTOL aircraft’s final configuration, specifications and design features meet customer as well as FAA, EASA and Transport Canada certification and timeline requirements. The companies will also explore new markets for Bristow operations utilizing the Electra eSTOL aircraft, with a focus on “middle mile” logistics for retail distribution, expanding Bristow’s service to their existing customer base and specialized passenger services. Today, Bristow operates a fleet of approximately 240 of the industry’s most modern aircraft for air mobility transport uses including oil and gas customers, search and rescue (SAR), and government and civil organizations, with annual revenues of over US$1.2 billion.
Electra’s eSTOL aircraft can operate from runways as small as 300×100 feet using a proprietary-proven blown lift technology where eight engines provide additional wing lift, and hybrid-electric power that provides internal recharging capabilities for aircraft batteries, eliminating the need for new ground infrastructure. The quieter and more environmentally friendly aircraft is currently being designed to transport up to 1,800 pounds of cargo or move five to seven passengers about 400 to 500 miles. Electra’s aircraft can operate in a variety of environments ranging from busy urban areas to remote landing strips, and fly missions ranging from on-demand intracity flights to medical missions, cargo transportation, scheduled passenger service, and more. With greater payload capabilities, longer range, and lower operating costs than competitors, Electra’s eSTOL represents the next generation of novel aircraft
