Royal Aeronautical Society

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

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.