eFlyer 2

eFlyer 2 Introduction:

eFlyer 2 arrives as a pure electric flight trainer built in the United States by Bye Aerospace. And it targets the general aviation market with clinical precision. Designed as a zero emission airplane, it replaces aging piston trainers with a cleaner propulsion system and lower operating costs. The 2026 model year highlights a 92 kWh aviation battery, a 90 kW motor, and projected endurance near 3.5 hours. With a base price of $489,000 USD (€411,211), it sits above used legacy trainers yet below the lifetime cost curve of many fuel-burning rivals. For flight schools chasing sustainability and budget discipline, few alternatives look as forward-thinking.

• Manufactured in the USA by Bye Aerospace with production prototype flight scheduled for early 2026.
• Designed to secure FAA Part 23 certification shortly after conforming prototype validation.
• Introduced as a cost-effective alternative to traditional piston aircraft like Cessna 172.
• Base acquisition price positioned at $489,000 USD (€411,211), reflecting advanced electric propulsion and avionics.
• Primary differentiator centers on lower maintenance, simplified systems, and electric propulsion aviation architecture.

What is the Price of eFlyer 2 in 2026?

The eFlyer 2 price starts at $489,000 USD (€411,211). That figure places it in the premium electric trainer bracket, competing against modernized legacy aircraft and advanced light sport trainers. And the higher upfront cost offsets projected savings in fuel, oil, and overhaul expenses.

Both trims maintain identical electric propulsion systems and structural architecture. Differences center on avionics sophistication and instrument flight readiness. The IFR Premium adds advanced autopilot logic and expanded Garmin integration. And that pushes it closer to airline-style cockpit layouts. Range and endurance remain consistent across configurations, ensuring uniform training economics.

Engine, Battery, and Performance Specs:

Battery & Charging Specifications

The aircraft integrates a 92 kWh lithium battery pack. Endurance approaches 180 minutes under conservative power settings. Cruise speed near 250 km/h equals 155 mph. Charging flexibility supports DC fast charging in under 30 minutes. AC charging spans roughly 3 to 4 hours. Estimated range reaches approximately 450 km, equivalent to 280 miles, depending on mission profile.

• Battery capacity: 92 kWh
• Flying range: approx. 450 km (280 miles)
• Flight duration: up to 3.5 hours
• DC charging: under 30 minutes
• AC charging: 3–4 hours

Electric Motor Specifications

Propulsion originates from a Safran ENGINeUS electric motor rated at 90 kW. That equals 120 horsepower. Torque delivery arrives instantly, characteristic of electric propulsion. The tractor configuration spins a composite three-blade propeller. And the absence of mixture controls simplifies cockpit workload.

• Motor output: 90 kW / 120 hp
• Configuration: Single motor, nose mounted
• Drive system: Direct electric propulsion
• Climb rate: approx. 5.3 m/s (1,040 ft/min)

Performance Specifications

Maximum speed stands at 250 km/h, or 155 mph. Service ceiling reaches about 4,260 meters, equivalent to 14,000 feet. Empty weight measures 662 kg, around 1,459 pounds. Payload capacity totals 204 kg, or 450 pounds. Glide ratio of 20 to 1 adds operational safety.

• Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
• Service ceiling: 4,260 m (14,000 ft)
• Empty weight: 662 kg (1,459 lb)
• Payload: 204 kg (450 lb)

And in practice, the quiet propulsion system transforms training sorties. Students focus on airspace management rather than engine vibrations. Maintenance intervals stretch longer. Fuel logistics vanish. For academies managing fleet uptime, that equation looks persuasive.

Exterior and Interior Features

Exterior Design

The fuselage employs carbon fiber composite construction. That yields a high strength-to-weight ratio. Wingspan extends to 11.6 meters, about 38 feet. Length measures 7.8 meters, roughly 25.6 feet. Height reaches 2.5 meters, near 8.2 feet. The low-wing cantilever layout improves glide efficiency. LED landing and navigation lights conserve battery reserves. And the tricycle landing gear tolerates repeated training cycles.

Interior & Technology

The cockpit presents a glass canopy with panoramic visibility. Garmin G500 TXi anchors the digital instrument stack. Real-time telemetry tracks battery state of charge and endurance. Redbird Sidekick connectivity logs performance metrics for fleet managers. Two side-by-side seats feature durable synthetic upholstery. An integrated whole-aircraft parachute system enhances safety margins. FAA spin-resistant design standards further protect student aviators.

Overall ergonomics feel intuitive. Instrument layout mirrors larger commercial aircraft logic. And the quiet cabin environment supports clear instructor communication. Training hours become less fatiguing, more focused, and more efficient.

Pros and Cons:

Pros

• Zero emission electric propulsion
• Lower operating cost versus piston trainers
• Advanced Garmin avionics integration
• High glide ratio enhancing safety
• Reduced noise footprint for urban airports

Cons

• Higher initial acquisition price
• Dependence on charging infrastructure
• Certification timeline tied to FAA approval

Market position & Expert Data:

According to Reuters, electric aviation investment surged by over 30 percent in 2025. Research from McKinsey projects regional electric aircraft to capture measurable training market share before 2030. Data reveals operating cost reductions approaching one-sixth compared with avgas platforms. And that cost arithmetic attracts flight academies globally.

Flight schools in Germany and China face rising fuel expenses and environmental mandates. The electric trainer aligns with those pressures. In the United States, FAA certification progress defines rollout speed. Competitive pressure arrives from Pipistrel Alpha Electro. Yet longer endurance and modern avionics sharpen the competitive edge.

Conclusion:

The eFlyer 2 stands as a forward-leaning electric trainer for 2026. It delivers 92 kWh battery capacity, 250 km/h performance, and near 3.5-hour endurance. Operating economics favor flight schools seeking efficiency and sustainability. And its digital cockpit prepares students for modern commercial aviation pathways.