Electra and Safran Sign Full-Life Production Agreement for TG600 Turbogenerator to Power EL9 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft

Electra and Safran Sign Full-Life Production Agreement for TG600 Turbogenerator

Electra and Safran Helicopter Engines announced on July 15, 2026 that they have reached a full-life production agreement for the TG600 turbogenerator system, which will power the Electra EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft.

Initial Order of 250 Units, with Capacity to Scale

The agreement includes an initial purchase order for 250 TG600 units, with production capacity to be expanded flexibly in line with market demand. The deal builds on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the two companies in 2023, with the EL9 targeting commercial entry into service in 2030.

TG600 Technical Specifications

The TG600 turbogenerator integrates a gas turbine with an electrical generator and power conditioning system, developed on the basis of Safran's Arrano engine — which delivers an 18% reduction in fuel consumption compared to equivalent in-service engines. The complete system provides 600 kW of electrical output and is equipped with two GENeUS motor-generators from Safran Electrical & Power.

EL9 Ultra Short: Take-Off and Landing in Just 150 Feet

The Electra EL9 Ultra Short uses a hybrid-electric propulsion system combined with blown-lift technology, enabling it to take off and land within just 150 feet (approximately 46 metres). This capability is designed to unlock locations that conventional commercial aviation cannot serve, including sites closer to dense population centres.

The EL9 is designed to fill the regional connectivity gap — particularly for journeys of 50 to 250 miles (approximately 80 to 400 km), a range that is too long to drive conveniently but often requires a detour through a major hub when flying. According to Electra's Direct Aviation Market Outlook, demand for such regional services is projected to require 12,000 to 16,000 aircraft over the first decade of commercial operations.

CEO Statements

Electra CEO Marc Allen said the agreement represents a significant milestone for both companies and for the broader advanced air mobility (AAM) industry. Safran Helicopter Engines CEO Cédric Goubet emphasised that the collaboration focuses on integrating engine technology with electrical systems to deliver an advanced hybrid-electric solution.

Certification Progress and Delivery Plans

Earlier this year, Electra and Bristow Group announced a pre-delivery payment agreement for the EL9, securing the first delivery position subject to type certification. The EL9 has already submitted a Part 23 type certification application to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with first flight currently planned for late 2027 to early 2028.

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