Helsinki Evaluates Hybrid-electric Flight Connections

Finland’s capital, Helsinki, is taking the lead in a study to evaluate options for new regional air services through a partnership with U.S. start-up Electra, which is developing the nine-passenger EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. On August 27, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with city officials and Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences to explore new ways to connect communities across the Gulf of Finland.

Part of the study will assess the business case and infrastructure needs for flights between Helsinki and the Estonian capital Tallinn, which is just 50 miles away but currently requires a two-hour ferry sailing or time-consuming connections through international airports. The organizations will consider how the EL9, which can operate from 100-foot strips, could more efficiently connect these cities through services that Electra describes as Direct Aviation.

The project is due to be completed by the end of 2026, with Electra targeting type certification under the FAA’s Part 23 rules in 2029. The company has already demonstrated its smaller EL2 technology demonstrator on flights in and around Charleston, South Carolina.

“Helsinki aims to grow sustainably while strengthening its accessibility, vitality and international connections,” said Ville Lehmuskoski, executive director of the city government’s Urban Environment Division. “If emerging low-emission and electric aviation can complement the existing transport system with faster and more direct connections across the Gulf of Finland, it could create tangible benefits for residents and businesses on both sides, while supporting the development of a more sustainable and integrated regional transport system.”