First electric motor aircraft takes off thanks to FOCA support
Last week, the world's first certified electric motor aircraft completed its maiden flight in Ecuvillens (FR). This was made possible thanks to the close cooperation of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) with other aviation authorities, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the manufacturer Pipistrel.
Thanks to the electric motor aircraft based in Switzerland, the FOCA, together with the aviation authorities of France and Slovenia and the manufacturer Pipistrel, was able to access important data from a test flight program under EASA flight conditions. The certification could thus be completed in less than three years. With this project, EASA and FOCA have not only gathered a great deal of know-how about electric aircraft, but have also laid the foundation for the certification of low-emission aircraft with environmentally friendly propulsion systems.
This benefits the climate and the population, as the use of electric aircraft also significantly reduces noise pollution in light aviation.
Convincing technology
The Pipistrel Velis Electro electric aircraft belongs to the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category and is equipped with an E-811 electric motor, which produces 57.6 kilowatts (78 hp) during takeoff for a maximum duration of 90 seconds, while cruise power is limited to 49.2 kW (67 hp). The two propulsion batteries with a nominal voltage of 345 volts have a capacity of 11 kilowatt hours each. According to the manufacturer, a flight time of 50 minutes plus a reserve of 10 minutes is possible. The Pipistrel Velis Electro will be used in particular for basic pilot training. Holders of a private pilot's license can take a briefing during 5 flights.
Meanwhile EASA certified
In mid-May 2020, EASA granted approval for the electric motor, shortly afterwards for the aircraft, and last week the maiden flight took place. Before the Pipistrel Velis Electro became the world's first electric aircraft to receive a type certificate, the conditions for operation, maintenance and training of pilots and personnel had to be defined and specified from scratch. These were not included in the previously applicable EASA certification framework. The FOCA played a leading role in the development of these new certification conditions.
