Electra, a developer of hybrid-electric aircraft, has secured three new U.S. patents protecting the foundational control systems of its blown-lift Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing (eSTOL) aircraft. The patents cover the proprietary logic that allows pilots to manage complex distributed electric propulsion with a single interface.
The newly granted patents include systems for flight path control of a blown lift aircraft (US Pat. #12384550), a pilot guidance display (U.S Pat. #12298151), and a battery disconnect system designed to enhance safety and maintenance (U.S Pat. #12489181).
Unlike traditional aircraft that rely on mechanical control surfaces, Electra’s architecture integrates the motors themselves as active flight control elements. The flight path control patent details a closed-loop system enabling pilots to command the aircraft’s angle through a single integrated power control. By simply selecting a mode—such as takeoff or cruise—the onboard computing system dynamically adjusts thrust across multiple propulsors to maintain the desired trajectory without manual throttle manipulation.
“Our patent portfolio protects our architecture and the ability to manage power, lift, and energy safely in a scalable hybrid-electric configuration,” said Chris Courtin, Director of Technology Development at Electra. “Where traditional aircraft rely on aerodynamic control surfaces, our distributed propulsion system makes the motors themselves an active flight control element. That improves precision, reduces workload, and makes Ultra Short aircraft fly like any other fixed wing aircraft.”
The technology leverages blown-lift aerodynamics, where distributed electric propulsors accelerate airflow over the wing to generate high lift at low speeds. Algorithms continuously optimize thrust by referencing real-time air data and attitude sensors, enabling consistent Ultra Short performance in under 150 feet while maintaining efficient cruise.
Electra’s hybrid-electric approach circumvents the range and infrastructure limitations of fully electric aircraft. A turbogenerator continuously powers the distributed propulsors, allowing operations from existing helipads, parking lots, or soccer fields without ground charging infrastructure.
The company’s EL2 technology demonstrator has already validated the system in flight. Development now focuses on certifying the nine-passenger EL9 model, which targets commercial service in late 2029. With over 2,200 pre-orders from more than 60 operators worldwide, Electra is positioning its Direct Aviation model to connect underserved communities through practical, scalable hybrid-electric flight.
