Safran Helicopter Engines and Aura Aero have executed a new agreement to advance the development of the propulsion system for the Electric Regional Aircraft, known as the ERA. This contract marks a significant step in their collaboration, which began with a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023.
The deal specifically covers the creation and integration of Safran turbogenerators into the ERA prototype, establishing a foundation for future series production of the aircraft's powertrain.
The ERA is designed as a 19-seat regional plane utilizing a hybrid electric propulsion architecture. The system relies on eight electric propulsion units, each powered by one of two TG600 turbogenerators. Each turbogenerator is capable of generating 600 kW of electricity.
These units are built upon Safran Helicopter Engines’ Arrano engine technology and incorporate GENeUS electric generators provided by Safran Electrical & Power. Additionally, Safran Electrical & Power will supply the ENGINeUS motors required for the electric propulsion units.
Cédric Goubet, chief executive of Safran Helicopter Engines, stated that the company is pleased to reach this milestone with Aura Aero. He noted that the TG600 turbogenerator serves as a key component of the ERA’s hybrid system and confirmed that teams from both organizations will collaborate toward the prototype’s first flight.
Jérémy Caussade, CEO and co-founder of Aura Aero, described the partnership as a reflection of their shared goal to achieve decarbonized and sovereign aviation. He emphasized that combining Safran’s expertise in turbogenerators with next-generation electric motors creates a reliable, high-performance system tailored for regional air transport needs.
