Aviation is looking for ways to become more sustainable. The pressure on the industry to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions has increased significantly in recent years. In addition to new fuels, new propulsion technologies are an important starting point for research.
A big step has now been taken, albeit on a small scale. For the first time, the European Aviation Safety Agency EASA has granted a purely electric aircraft a type certificate. The Pipistrel Velis Electro received the approval on Wednesday (June, 10). «This is an exciting breakthrough», said Patrick Ky, head of the agency.
Up to 50 minutes of flight time
The Velis Electro is a 6.47 metre long double-seater with a wingspan of 10.7 metres and a cruise speed of around 167 kilometres per hour. It is primarily intended as a training aircraft. The Slovenian manufacturer Pipistrel states 50 minutes plus extra time as the maximum flying time.
