Aura Aero Launches U.S. Production for Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft in Florida
French aircraft manufacturer Aura Aero has taken a significant step in its hybrid-electric regional aircraft development strategy by expanding operations to the United States. The company has opened a new production and operations facility in Daytona Beach, Florida, located within the research park of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The site will serve as Aura Aero’s U.S. headquarters, delivery hub, and customer support center.
The newly inaugurated facility spans approximately 11,000 square meters, marking the first phase of the company’s industrial expansion in the U.S. Over the coming years, Aura Aero plans to scale this presence into a larger final assembly and manufacturing line in Florida’s well-known Space Coast aerospace corridor.
Advancing Sustainable Regional Aviation
Founded in 2018 at Toulouse-Francazal Airport, Aura Aero is focused on developing next-generation aircraft solutions that significantly reduce carbon emissions in short-haul air travel.
The first aircraft to be produced at the Florida facility will come from the company’s Integral family — a line of two-seat aerobatic and training aircraft offered in both piston-engine and fully electric variants.
The Long-Term Goal: The ERA Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft
At the core of Aura Aero’s development roadmap is the ERA (Electric Regional Aircraft), a 19-seat hybrid-electric passenger aircraft designed to serve short-to-medium-range regional routes.
Key target specifications for ERA include:
| Capability | Target Objective |
|---|---|
| Range | Up to 900 nautical miles |
| Airport Performance | STOL capability for short runway operations |
| Propulsion Strategy | Fully electric during takeoff, hybrid during cruise |
Aura Aero intends to establish a 500,000 m² ERA production campus in Florida by 2028, aiming to create over 1,000 highly skilled jobs in the region.
Why the U.S. Market Matters
The company views the United States as a core strategic market for hybrid-electric aircraft adoption. Aura Aero currently holds Letters of Intent (LoIs) for more than 650 aircraft, with a strong share originating from U.S. and North American regional operators.
The U.S. expansion will support:
- Integration with FAA certification pathways
- Enhanced regional sales, assembly, and delivery capabilities
Economic Impact for Florida
State officials and regional development agencies describe the project as a high-value aerospace investment. Local authorities and Space Florida, the state’s aerospace economic development organization, are partnering with Aura Aero to support site buildout and workforce development.
