Royal Aeronautical Society Visits Flexjet and 4AIR | Electric Aviation Insights

Why It Matters

Introducing electric trainers accelerates skill development in sustainable aviation, while the roadmap to longer‑range, hybrid aircraft promises greener regional connectivity and reduced carbon footprints.

Key Takeaways

• First generation electric Pipistrel aircraft used for pilot training
• Battery-powered plane offers quieter operation and simple four-switch controls
• Flexjet and 4AIR aim to expand range and passenger capacity
• Hybrid electric concepts provide reserve fuel for safety margins
• Royal Aeronautical Society encourages students to join sustainable aviation sector

Summary

The video documents a visit by the Royal Aeronautical Society to Flexjet and 4AIR, showcasing the Pipistrel Electro, a first‑generation electric trainer that has logged four years of flight time.

The aircraft uses two battery packs, an inverter converting DC to AC, and four simple switches, delivering quieter, lower‑maintenance operation compared with combustion trainers. Flexjet and 4AIR stress that next‑generation models will feature longer range, higher passenger and cargo capacity, and hybrid configurations that retain a fuel reserve for contingency.

Adam notes, “It’s a joy to fly,” and likens the current plane to a Nokia before the iPhone, emphasizing rapid technological progress. He also highlights remote UK islands as early adopters for short‑haul electric hops.

The demonstration signals a shift toward sustainable aviation training, giving student pilots hands‑on experience with zero‑emission aircraft and paving the way for broader adoption of electric and hybrid air mobility in regional transport and eventually, vertical‑takeoff operations.

Original Description

The Royal Aeronautical Society were delighted to meet Adam Twidell, Future of Flight Manager at Flexjet and 4AIR. The Society discussed electric aviation and how 4AIR uses the Pipistrel Velis Electro, during our visit to Fairoaks Airport.

POV of flying the Velis Electro can be found here: https://youtu.be/avyCojWnl-0?si=UaCldazn5ITVdqBg

Read more on electric aviation and its future: https://www.aerosociety.com/news/are-airfields-electric/

Read RAeS Briefing Paper - Public attitudes to the

decarbonisation of aviation: https://www.aerosociety.com/media/26178/public-attitudes-to-the-decarbonisation-of-aviation.pdf

Find out more about 4AIR: https://www.4air.aero/

Discover Synergy Flight Training: http://www.flysynergy.com/flight-training/

Find out more about Fairoaks Airport: https://fairoaksairport.uk/

Pipistrel: https://www.pipistrel-aircraft.com/products/velis-electro/