Canada approves Pipistrel electric trainer aircraft

Transport Canada has validated the type certificate for the electric Pipistrel Explorer, Velis Club and Velis Electro. This milestone paves the way for operators to own and fly the validated aircraft models, opening new opportunities for flight schools to incorporate these aircraft into their curriculum, providing future pilots advanced training opportunities. "Transport Canada's validation of these aircraft type certificates serve as an acknowledgement of our teams engineering expertise and highlights the growing international recognition of our products in key global markets," said Gabriel Massey, president and managing director of Pipistrel. "This validation not only strengthens our position in the Canadian market, but also significantly enhances flight training capabilities across the country."

READ: First electric aircraft touches down at London Gatwick[1] The Pipistrel Velis Electro produced by Textron Aviation offers a lower-cost and zero emissions platform for pilots. The aircraft's low-noise profile, producing noise levels of only 60 decibels, and user-friendly avionics, make it an ideal solution for flight training with zero carbon emissions.

The aircraft achieved EASA type certification in 2020, UK CAA certification in 2022 and subsequent FAA LSA airworthiness exemption in 2024.

Notably, in 2024, the Velis Electro's electric engine was the first electric engine to receive type certification validation in Canada.

References

1. ^ First electric aircraft touches down at London Gatwick (www.aviationbusinessnews.com)