Bristow Secures First Delivery Slot for Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short Aircraft

Bristow Group has signed a Pre Delivery Payment agreement with Electra to secure the first delivery slot for the EL9 Ultra Short hybrid electric aircraft. The agreement converts Bristow’s earlier pre order commitment into binding terms aligned with commercial aviation standards, subject to aircraft certification. The arrangement covers five EL9 aircraft and includes options for an additional 45 units.

Agreement Advances Longstanding Partnership Between Bristow and Electra

The two companies have collaborated since 2021, and this latest agreement formalizes Bristow’s early access to Electra’s first production aircraft. All five EL9 units covered under the PDP will be delivered during the aircraft’s initial production year. By reserving these early slots, Bristow positions itself to introduce new advanced air mobility capabilities ahead of other operators.

EL9 Ultra Short Aircraft Expands Regional Mobility Options

Electra’s EL9 is designed to carry nine passengers with baggage or up to 3,000 pounds of cargo for 330 nautical miles, with a maximum ferry range of 1,100 nautical miles with IFR reserves. The aircraft’s Ultra Short performance enables takeoff and landing in approximately 150 feet, allowing operations from compact sites such as fields, parking areas, and underutilized runways. This capability supports Electra’s Direct Aviation model, which aims to bring point to point air travel closer to population centers and reduce regional travel times.

Bristow Plans Turnkey Deployment Across Multiple Markets

Bristow intends to integrate the EL9 into mobility solutions for corporate clients, resort destinations, major and regional airlines, and government agencies. With more than seventy years of experience operating complex helicopter and fixed wing missions, the company views the EL9 as a natural extension of its history of adopting next generation aviation technologies.

Leadership Perspectives on the EL9 Launch

Executives from both companies highlighted the significance of securing the first delivery slot. Electra noted that Bristow’s commitment reflects confidence in the EL9 and in the broader Direct Aviation concept. Bristow emphasized that the aircraft’s performance, operating economics, and flexibility create opportunities not achievable with current platforms, enabling new levels of access and speed for customers.

Direct Aviation Model Expands Access Points and Mission Flexibility

Electra’s Direct Aviation approach leverages Ultra Short aircraft to unlock thousands of new access points, enabling routes that were previously impractical. By pairing adaptable infrastructure with hybrid electric performance, the model supports expanded economic opportunity for communities of varying sizes and offers new options for both passenger and cargo missions.

About Electra

Electra is an aerospace company developing hybrid electric Ultra Short aircraft designed to deliver high payload capability, extended range, and reduced operating costs. The company’s team has contributed to more than forty certified or successfully developed aircraft programs. Electra’s customers include NASA, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy, along with commercial operators worldwide.

About Bristow Group

Bristow provides vertical flight solutions to offshore energy companies and government agencies. Its services include personnel transport, search and rescue, medevac, fixed wing operations, unmanned systems, and ad hoc helicopter missions. The company operates across multiple regions, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States.