The first flight of the appropriately named Electra electric-powered open-cockpit aircraft took place Sunday, Dec. 23 at 11:50 a.m. local time at the Aspres sur Buech airfield, Hautes Alpes. The braced-shoulder-wing taildragger flew a closed circuit for 48 minutes powered by lithium polymer batteries, traveling the equivalent of a little more than 31 miles. (A quick look at the aircraft suggests the airframe itself was chosen more for expedience than for its high-performance characteristics). Piloted by test engineer Christian Vandamme, the flight was achieved in cooperation with APAME, the French association for the promotion of electrically motorized aircraft that created it. According to APAME’s Web site, “This flight uses the electrical engine for light aircraft respecting the environmental context and the control of energy costs.” It also builds on the success of the Electron Libre ultralight trike (powered hang-glider), which flew for 22 minutes in calm air on Aug. 25 from Aspres sur Buech airfield.
APAME Announces Electric Flight
Key Takeaways:
- The Electra, an electric-powered open-cockpit aircraft developed by the French association APAME, successfully completed its inaugural flight on December 23rd.
- The braced-shoulder-wing taildragger flew a closed circuit for 48 minutes, covering over 31 miles, powered by lithium polymer batteries.
- This milestone underscores the commitment to electric propulsion for light aircraft, aiming for environmental benefits and controlled energy costs.
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