Electra.aero, Inc., pioneering Direct Aviation, and Bristow Group Inc., a global leader in sustainable vertical flight solutions, have signed a Pre-Delivery Payment (PDP) deposit agreement with binding terms aligned to commercial aviation industry standards, subject to aircraft certification. The agreement secures the first delivery slot for Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft, which can carry nine passengers with baggage or 3,000 pounds of cargo for 330 nautical miles, with a maximum ferry range of 1,100 nautical miles.
By securing the earliest EL9 deliveries, Bristow confirms its leadership role in shaping the future of Direct Aviation, positioning itself to offer customers unprecedented point-to-point access, reduced travel times, and new regional mobility opportunities. Bristow and Electra have worked together for five years, starting with a pre-order agreement in 2021. The parties have now converted their pre-order letter of intent into a fixed agreement for five EL9 delivery slots, all to be delivered in the aircraft’s first production year. The PDP agreement includes option rights for Bristow to acquire another 45 aircraft at the same fixed terms.
Bristow plans to deploy the EL9 across turnkey mobility solutions for corporate customers, premier destinations, major and regional airlines, and government agencies operating essential public service routes. With over seven decades of experience operating complex helicopter and fixed-wing missions, Bristow has a proven history of integrating next-generation aviation technologies. The EL9’s ability to take off and land in just 150 feet will open new transportation options and reduce travel times.
Marc Allen, CEO of Electra, stated that Bristow has a long and respected track record of safely operating complex missions in demanding environments. He said the company is proud to welcome Bristow as an EL9 Launch Customer, noting that reserving five first-year delivery slots—including slot one—makes a powerful statement of confidence in Electra and Direct Aviation. Dave Stepanek, Bristow’s Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, added that the EL9 changes regional air mobility with its ultra-short performance, quiet operation, and lower operating costs, ensuring Bristow will lead this new industry.
