On September 11, 2024, Viseu will witness a landmark event in aviation history as the Velis Electro, Europe’s first 100% electric aircraft, takes its inaugural flight from the Aeródromo Municipal de Viseu. This groundbreaking moment highlights a significant advancement toward a more sustainable aviation industry.


Vision and Innovation: The Force Behind the Velis Electro

José Madeira, Executive Director of the International Flight Academy (IFA), is leading this revolutionary change. “The Velis Electro represents our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” Madeira says. “We are proud to introduce this aircraft to Portugal, demonstrating our leadership in green aviation.” The local community and aviation enthusiasts eagerly await this milestone, which signifies a major step forward in reducing aviation's environmental impact.

Manufactured by Pipistrel and certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the Velis Electro is powered by advanced lithium batteries, offering a flight range of up to 50 minutes per charge. It can recharge in as little as 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a practical and eco-friendly option for training.


A Green Revolution in Aviation Training

The Velis Electro’s introduction is a pivotal moment for aviation training. Unlike traditional aircraft, this electric plane generates zero CO2 emissions and operates with minimal noise, setting a new standard for sustainability. Its features—intuitive display graphics, zero warm-up time before take-off, and high aerodynamic efficiency—enhance the training experience and align with IFA’s goal of incorporating the latest technology into its programs.

The environmental benefits of the Velis Electro are substantial. By eliminating fuel costs and reducing maintenance requirements, it provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to conventional training aircraft. This shift not only benefits the environment but also supports the broader goal of achieving carbon neutrality in aviation.


Economic and Educational Impact on Viseu

IFA's presence in Viseu, established in 2019, has made a notable economic contribution. The academy has injected over 400,000 euros directly into the local economy, with an estimated indirect impact of around 1.5 million euros through local services like hotels and restaurants. The introduction of the Velis Electro is expected to further boost this economic impact by attracting more students and creating additional job opportunities.

Moreover, IFA’s operations in Viseu have provided local youth with valuable career prospects in aviation. The academy’s programs offer a pathway to careers that many young people in the region might not have previously considered. By expanding its fleet and embracing innovative technologies, IFA is helping to build a skilled workforce and contribute to the region’s economic development.


The Inaugural Flight Event

The inaugural flight of the Velis Electro on September 11th will be a historic occasion, attended by notable figures including Fernando Ruas, President of the Viseu Municipal Chamber. This event will showcase the aircraft's advanced technology and environmental benefits, marking a significant milestone for both the local community and the aviation industry.


Looking Ahead: The Future of Electric Aviation

The Velis Electro represents just the beginning of an exciting future for electric aviation. IFA plans to continue leading in this innovation, integrating new advancements into its training programs and expanding its fleet. The academy's vision includes further reducing the environmental impact of aviation training and setting new industry standards for sustainability.


Join the Excitement

Celebrate this groundbreaking achievement by attending the inaugural flight event or following IFA on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Engage with us in the conversation about the future of green aviation and witness how Viseu is contributing to a more sustainable and innovative aviation industry.

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes