The FAA has closed the G-1 Issue Paper for Electra's EL9, formally establishing the certification basis for the ultra-short, nine-passenger hybrid-electric aircraft ahead of the next stage of its Part 23 type certification.

Electra submitted its Part 23 type certification application in November 2025. Completion of the G-1 Issue Paper within seven months reflects years of early technical engagement with the FAA and sets an agreed regulatory foundation for several purported industry-first technologies, including distributed hybrid-electric propulsion, blown-lift for ultra-short takeoff and landing and advanced fly-by-wire controls intended to support low-speed handling and reduce pilot workload.

Marc Allen, chief executive officer of Electra, says: “The swift G-1 achievement reflects the hard work and productive collaboration between Electra and the FAA, who are working together to make the future of aviation real.”

JP Stewart, Electra's senior vice president for product development, adds: “In the G-2 phase of the certification process, Electra and the FAA will take the next step and focus on defining the EL9's means of compliance.”

For novel aircraft, establishing the G-1 certification basis is an important early milestone, determining how new technologies will be evaluated and providing the framework for proving that the aircraft meets the safety standards required for commercial passenger and cargo operations. The EL9 is designed to take off and land in 150 feet or less and carry up to nine passengers on routes of up to 330 nautical miles, underpinning Electra's plan for Direct Aviation, a point-to-point service intended to connect a broader network of ultra-short airfields beyond large hub airports.