The Electric Regional Aircraft (ERA) is a hybrid-electric airliner being developed by French start-up Aura Aero. As of early 2023, the company was projecting entry into service in 2027, based on the assumption that it would have a full-scale prototype ready to start flight testing in 2024. By the end of 2022, Aura Aero had reported the signing of letters of intent covering provisional sales for more than 330 aircraft.
The fixed-wing design features six sets of propellers and a dual-tail configuration. Aura Aero claims the ERA, for which French aerospace group Safran is developing the propulsion system, will deliver direct operating costs of just €0.10 per seat-kilometer. With a stand-up, pressurized cabin the ERA is intended to carry up to 19 passengers or 1,900 kg (4,180 pounds). The aircraft is intended to take off on battery power alone, in order to reduce noise, and then use a turbine during cruise flight.
Aura Aero is projecting a maximum payload range of 200 nmi (230 miles), rising to a maximum range of 800 nmi, with a cruise speed of 250 knots. The company says the ERA will be able to operate in STOL mode from a runway length of 800 meters (2,624 feet).
The company is also developing the Integral family of two-seat trainers and general aviation aircraft, including the all-electric Integral E model.