AURA AERO Opens Florida Facility, Plans 1,000 Jobs, Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Production

French aircraft manufacturer AURA AERO has opened its first U.S. production site and headquarters at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Research Park in Daytona Beach, Florida, marking a significant expansion into the North American market. The 11,000-square-foot facility will produce the INTEGRAL family of two-seat, aerobatic-capable training aircraft, initially powered by a Lycoming piston engine, with plans for fully electric versions, and serve as a delivery and support center. This site also lays the groundwork for future assembly of AURA AERO's 19-seat hybrid-electric regional aircraft, the ERA, with a planned 500,000-square-foot assembly line by 2028, aiming to position the U.S. as a key hub for sustainable aviation production. The company is pursuing FAA certification for its aircraft alongside European certifications and has received over 650 letters of intent for the ERA, valued at more than $10.5 billion, with a significant portion from U.S. customers. The expansion is expected to create over 1,000 high-skilled jobs in Florida and strengthen collaboration with Embry-Riddle and Space Florida, enhancing the region's aerospace innovation ecosystem and supporting growth in sustainable aviation and training markets.