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The Future Is a Fast Charge

An electric debut from Diamond and Safran advances the sustainability game, if it meets the timeline proposed.

The eDA40 from Diamond Aircraft would change the game with a true “fast charge” system. [Courtesy: Diamond Aircraft]
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Key Takeaways:

  • Existing electric training aircraft like the Pipistrel Velis Electro are currently limited by long battery charging times, often exceeding an hour.
  • Diamond Aircraft and Safran are developing the eDA40, an electric version of the popular DA40, powered by Safran's ENGINeUS 100 motor.
  • The eDA40's standout feature is its projected 20-minute "fast charge" turnaround, which is considered a significant game-changer for flight training efficiency.
  • While promising, the long-term durability and reliability of these new electric motors in the demanding flight school environment remain a key question that needs to be proven.
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Just two weeks ago, I shared the occasion of my first flight in a fully electric-powered airplane, the Pipistrel Velis Electro, which gained certification under EASA more than a year ago.

The Velis Electro fills a niche—for the moment. In my assessment, I noted that, in order for it to secure its place in flight training, the down time between flights required to charge the battery needed to come down. Unless it’s on Pipistrel’s “fast charge” system, the time to recharge moves from one hour to more than two hours in some cases.

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