Bye Aerospace has increased its production backlog to 135 purchase deposit and option total agreements for its all-electric twin motor eFlyer 800, targeted for the regional airline market. Across all its eFlyer models in development, Bye Aerospace is now approaching a total backlog of 900 units, including 732 paid purchase deposits and 162 paid, time-limited purchase option deposits.

“The response has been enthusiastically positive since we announced the eFlyer 800 in April of last year,” says CEO George E Bye. “We are particularly grateful to our launch customers, Jet It and JetClub, for their endorsement of this ground-breaking programme. In addition, Safran continues to be a supportive partner as we continue to assess the most efficient electric powertrain using Safran's dual ENGINeUS electric motors and GENeUSGRID electric distribution and network protection system.”

The eight seat eFlyer 800 has a 65 inch-wide cabin for business transportation. A higher density 12 seat configuration for commuter operators and an increase in motor rating to balance aircraft and payload weight increases are also being considered.

Co-founder of Jet It and CEO of JetClub Vishal Hiremath says: “We are very serious about this aircraft and are looking forward to putting it into our operations around the world, including Europe and Asia. It's a very good looking and well-designed plane, and George Bye is a very experienced and accomplished aviation engineer. We are confident of the solid engineering behind it and eagerly waiting for entry into service.”

“Jet It and JetClub have made firm commitments to Bye Aerospace for a fleet of aircraft large enough to support the needs of the local travellers in every geographic region we operate in currently and in the future,” adds co-founder Glenn Gonzales. “This initial commitment for the sleek, ergonomically and wildly efficient eFlyer 800 is just the beginning of our relationship.”

Bye Aerospace is working closely with Safran to determine the most efficient electric powertrain for the eFlyer 800. Safran executive vice president and general manager power Hervé Blanc says: “After two years of testing in the Safran lab, we have validated all the key features and demonstrated the unrivalled performance of our ENGINeUS 500. This electric motor can deliver 750 kW maximum take off power, which is the perfect fit for the eFlyer 800. Our GENeUSGRID system will further support the eFlyer 800 architecture design with dissimilar distribution components that ensure full protection against all potential dysfunctional behaviours of a high voltage electrical propulsion system.”

Bye Aerospace is in the process of obtaining FAA Part 23 certification for the eFlyer 2 for professional flight training missions and the four-seat eFlyer 4 for air taxi, cargo and advanced training uses.