Bye Aerospace eFlyer 2 Receives FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate

The FAA has awarded Bye Aerospace a Special Airworthiness Certificate for the eFlyer 2, a two-place all-electric aircraft. The certificate was issued after an inspection at Centennial Airport (KAPA) near Denver, where the company is preparing for flight testing. According to Bye Aerospace, FAA officials examined the airframe, electric propulsion system, instruments, and other functional systems to confirm the aircraft is safe for operation.

Special Airworthiness Certificates are granted for aircraft with unique operational needs, such as research and development. Bye Aerospace said the certification authorizes the start of flight testing and marks a step toward first flight. CEO Rod Zastrow said the company has worked with the FAA since 2016 to advance certification standards for electric aircraft, and that receiving the certificate validates the work done.

The eFlyer series is designed to offer lower operating costs and reduced carbon emissions compared to internal combustion engine aircraft for training and general aviation markets.