Bye Aerospace has completed the first flight of its all-electric eFlyer 2 trainer at Centennial Airport near Denver, Colorado, with chief test pilot Elliot Seguin in the cockpit. Serial No. 001 flew a planned test profile and the aircraft’s flight test programme has now begun, moving the two-seat trainer into the next stage of development towards FAA certification and future customer deliveries.
The initial sortie was used to assess handling qualities, aerodynamic characteristics and system performance, while data was gathered for subsequent testing. Rod Zastrow, chief executive of Bye Aerospace, said the flight exceeded expectations in aerodynamics, handling, propulsion and overall performance, with no maintenance discrepancies reported. The aircraft had recently received a Special Airworthiness Certificate, clearing the way for flight testing at the company’s Denver-area base.