In its continuing focus on embracing new innovations and technology in aviation, AOPA has agreed to explore a production line position for Bye Aerospace’s eFlyer 2™.
“I have been an AOPA member for many years, and we appreciate everything this impactful organization does to support, promote and advocate for general aviation,” said George E. Bye, CEO of Bye Aerospace.
The two-seat eFlyer 2 is part of a fleet from Bye Aerospace expected to simplify aircraft operations, reduce maintenance costs, reduce carbon emissions from the aircraft to zero, and dramatically cut hourly operating costs.
The company is also developing a four-seat, higher performance all-electric model called the eFlyer 4™. Bye Aerospace is in the process of obtaining FAA Part-23 certification for the two-seat eFlyer 2 for the professional flight training mission and the four-seat eFlyer 4 for air-taxi, cargo and advanced training uses.
“We have a keen eye to aviation’s future, while keeping the needs of the current fleet in focus,” said AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker. “The hundreds of thousands of aircraft in today’s general aviation fleet provide a wide range of needed services to communities. At the same time, we’re excited to work with such innovators as Bye Aerospace, which works tirelessly to develop transformative advancements in general aviation.”
The eFlyer 2 is expected to carry an operating cost of $23 per hour (about $4 per hour in energy required for flight, depending on local electricity cost), with a top cruising speed of 135 knots. Currently, Bye Aerospace has orders for more than 700 of its electric aircraft. eFlyer 2 deliveries are expected to begin soon after FAA certification is achieved in late 2022, according to the current certification program schedule.
Working with manufacturers such as Bye Aerospace is one of the pillars of AOPA’s ongoing commitment to the next generation of aviation innovation and alternative fuels, while ensuring a seamless transition for legacy aircraft. This commitment includes several key initiatives, which have or will result in significant accomplishments for aviation:
“I’m excited about the future of GA,” Baker reiterates. “Innovation and emerging technologies will create new types of airframes and propulsion that will keep GA vibrant for generations to come.”