2Excel Aviation and Electra have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support demonstrations of Electra’s Ultra Short aircraft in the UK and Europe, beginning with airworthiness and flight operations support for Electra’s EL2 technology demonstrator.
Electra’s Ultra Short aircraft is designed to take off and land in less than 50 metres, creating a new category of point-to-point aviation from locations as small as a football pitch. The agreement combines 2Excel’s experience in complex flight demonstrations, aircraft modification, maintenance and repair with Electra’s hybrid-electric aircraft technology and vision for Direct Aviation.
Under the MOU, 2Excel will support Electra’s planned 2027 European demonstration tour of the EL2. This will include engagement with the UK Civil Aviation Authority and European Union Aviation Safety Agency, infrastructure and ground support, flight-test support, demonstration operations, planning and event execution.
Looking ahead, 2Excel is exploring the modification of Electra’s EL9 production aircraft for potential use in reconnaissance, surveillance, charter and other mission profiles where Ultra Short performance, hybrid-electric propulsion, payload and range could provide a cleaner and more flexible alternative to legacy aircraft.
Andy Offer, Co-founder and Chief Executive of 2Excel Aviation, said the company is excited to work with Electra’s Ultra Short aircraft, highlighting its short takeoff and landing capabilities combined with hybrid-electric propulsion. He added that the technology could support future sustainable aviation operations by reducing environmental impact and costs.
Offer also said that supporting the EL2 two-seat technology demonstrator could provide a pathway toward the potential introduction of the EL9 production aircraft into service in the UK and Europe. He highlighted its fast cruising speed, payload and range as capabilities with potential for a variety of mission profiles.
Jake Ashmore, Director of Strategic Growth at Electra Aero, said Europe is an important market for the company’s Ultra Short aircraft and that the partnership represents a step toward demonstrating hybrid-electric, ultra-short flight across the region.
Ashmore added that 2Excel brings local flight demonstration experience and regulatory knowledge that can support the introduction of Ultra Short flight in the UK and Europe. The companies plan to work together on bringing the EL2 to Europe in 2027, developing the regulatory pathway for future EL9 operations and advancing Electra’s Direct Aviation vision across the region.
