Flight Testing of eSTOL Aircraft

Electra's EL2 Ultra-Short Technology Demonstrator On June 5th, Ryan King from the Airport Emerging Technology R&D Section and research support contractors from Woolpert, Inc. conducted flight tests with Electra.aero in Piney Point, MD as part of an ongoing effort to support the establishment of performance informed design guidance for vertical flight infrastructure. The flight tests comprised a series of takeoffs and landings of Electra's EL2 Ultra-Short Technology Demonstrator; a two-seater, hybrid-electric, distributed propulsion short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft. The test site was located at Piney Point, MD Airport (MD85), a private, non-towered, facility. The objective of the activity was to measure the takeoff roll and stopping distances during maximum performance i.e. takeoffs in the shortest distance possible and maximum braking during landings.

Researchers used temporary chalk marking paint to apply special markings on the pavement to indicate the landing zone. An array of GoPro cameras was deployed along the length of the test runway to capture the locations of wheels up during takeoffs and touchdown points during landings. The precise starting and stopping points for each flight were surveyed using a total station, and ambient wind speeds and directions were recorded on an ultrasonic 3-D anemometer located adjacent to the runway. Nearly 90 operations were performed and collected data will be compiled and analyzed to further refine future test campaigns and validate the EL2's performance capabilities. These flight tests represent the first collaborative activity between the FAA and Electra under a newly executed Cooperative Research and Development Agreement.

Ryan King | ANG-E263