French Electric Aviation Company Aura Aero Expands to the U.S.
Aura Aero plans to meet significant demand in the American market by aiming to produce 100 aircraft annually at its factory. Will it be able to fulfill this commitment?
A Boost for the French Aerospace Industry
The Toulouse-based start-up Aura Aero has made a significant breakthrough in the aerospace sector. This gem of the French industry, which specializes in regional electric aircraft, plans to build a factory in the United States. Set for 2028, the establishment of this facility marks a remarkable success story for the young company.
An Ambitious Plan for the American Market
According to a company statement, the 50,000 m2 facility will be located at Daytona Beach International Airport in Florida, which will also host Aura Aero’s American headquarters. The company aims to meet the “massive needs of the American market.”
Aura Aero’s flagship project, the ERA (Electrical Regional Aircraft), is a 19-seat hybrid electric plane. Its inaugural flights are scheduled for 2026, with commercial service beginning in 2028. The American factory is expected to produce 100 aircraft per year.
A Promising Success for Aura Aero
In addition to its ambitious U.S. project, Aura Aero plans to build a factory near its headquarters at Toulouse-Francazal Airport. The company currently employs nearly 250 people and has recently welcomed EDF as a shareholder.
The firm has already secured letters of intent from 12 airlines for a total of 570 units of the ERA, including 50 from American regional carrier JSX. The ERA, equipped with eight propeller engines, can transport either 19 passengers or 1.9 tons of cargo, with a range of 1,600 km.