Electra and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a life-of-programme production agreement for the TG600 turbogenerator, which will power Electra's EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft.

The agreement follows a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 and includes an initial order for 250 TG600 turbogenerators, with production able to scale alongside EL9 demand. The TG600 will supply 600kW of electricity and is being developed from Safran Helicopter Engines' Arrano engine, offering an 18% reduction in fuel consumption compared with the previous generation. It will be paired with two GENeUS electric generators supplied by Safran Electrical & Power. Safran Helicopter Engines carried out the first bench test of a flight-ready turbogenerator in July at its site in Bordes, ahead of initial flight tests of the EL9.

Marc Allen, chief executive of Electra, says: "This agreement is a defining step forward for Electra and for the future of advanced air mobility."

Cédric Goubet, chief executive of Safran Helicopter Engines, adds: "We believe we have the most advanced and efficient hybrid-electric product in its class, a perfect fit for the EL9 to achieve revolutionary capabilities in new air mobility."

The EL9 Ultra Short uses hybrid-electric propulsion and blown-lift technology, allowing take-off and landing within 150 feet. Electra has submitted the aircraft to the Federal Aviation Administration for Part 23 type certification, with first flight expected in late 2027 or early 2028 and entry to service targeted for 2030. Earlier this year, Electra and Bristow Group signed a pre-delivery payment agreement, including non-refundable deposits, securing the first EL9 delivery slot with the TG600 turbogenerator.