Training & Certification
Canada Certifies Pipistrel Electric and Efficient Aircraft Models
Transport Canada approves Pipistrel Velis Electro, Explorer, and Velis Club, advancing sustainable aviation and flight training in Canada.
The Canadian aviation landscape is set for a significant transformation. On November 12, 2025, Transport Canada officially issued type certificate validations for three aircraft models from Pipistrel, a subsidiary of Textron Inc.. The aircraft, the all-electric Velis Electro, the versatile Explorer, and the Velis Club, can now be owned and operated across the country. This development is more than just a regulatory approval; it signals a pivotal moment for flight training and sustainable aviation in Canada, opening the door for a new generation of quieter, cleaner, and more cost-effective aircraft.
This move aligns with a broader global shift towards greener technologies in the aviation sector. As the industry grapples with its environmental impact, the introduction of zero-emission aircraft like the Velis Electro into training fleets is a critical step forward. For Canada, a country with vast landscapes and a significant number of remote communities, the operational efficiencies and reduced environmental footprint of these aircraft present a compelling proposition. The validation strengthens Pipistrel’s presence in a key international market and provides Canadian flight schools with the tools to modernize their training programs, preparing pilots for the future of flight.
The validation from Transport Canada puts a spotlight on three distinct yet equally innovative Commercial-Aircraft. Each model brings unique capabilities to the table, catering to different segments of the general aviation and flight training markets. From a silent, zero-emission trainer to a rugged, high-performance explorer, these aircraft represent the cutting edge of light aircraft design and technology. Their introduction into the Canadian market is expected to have a ripple effect, influencing everything from pilot training curricula to operational costs for flight schools.
The Pipistrel Velis Electro stands out as the world’s first and, to date, only type-certified electric aircraft.. Its validation in Canada is a landmark achievement for Electric-Aviation. The aircraft is a game-changer for flight training, primarily due to its zero-emission propulsion and remarkably low noise profile. Producing only 60 decibels of noise, it is significantly quieter than its conventionally powered counterparts, making it an ideal solution for training operations near populated areas.. This characteristic helps mitigate noise complaints, a common issue for flight schools.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the Velis Electro is designed with the student pilot in mind. It features user-friendly Avionics and a simplified powertrain, which can reduce the complexity of initial flight training. The operational costs are also lower, thanks to the reduced price of electricity compared to avgas and lower maintenance requirements for the electric engine. The engine itself was the first of its kind to receive type certification validation in Canada in 2024, paving the way for the full aircraft’s approval.. The University of Waterloo’s Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA) and the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre (WWFC) have already been utilizing a Velis Electro since 2022 for research, showcasing the aircraft’s potential in an academic and practical setting..
The journey to Canadian validation has been a global one. The Velis Electro first received EASA type Certification in 2020, followed by UK CAA certification in 2022 and an FAA LSA airworthiness exemption in 2024.. This series of international approvals underscores the aircraft’s robust design and the growing acceptance of electric propulsion in the aviation community.
“Transport Canada’s validation of these aircraft type certificates serve as an acknowledgement of our teams engineering expertise and highlights the growing international recognition of our products in key global markets.”
– Gabriel Massey, President and Managing Director of Pipistrel..
While the Velis Electro captures headlines for its electric powertrain, the Pipistrel Explorer (also known as the Virus SW 121A) offers a different kind of innovation. This aircraft is engineered for superior performance on minimal power, making it exceptionally well-suited for operations in Canada’s diverse and often challenging environments. Its ability to perform in varied temperatures and at high altitudes makes it a reliable platform for flights into remote areas. The Explorer is a versatile machine, approved for both day and night Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations and even intentional spins, a crucial maneuver in advanced pilot training.. The Explorer is equipped with an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)-ready avionics package, allowing it to be used for more advanced training modules. This capability provides a seamless transition for students moving from basic VFR training to more complex instrument flying. The aircraft’s efficiency and performance characteristics make it an attractive option for flight schools looking to offer a comprehensive training program with a modern and capable aircraft. Its EASA type certification was achieved in 2021, building on the original model’s certification from 2016..
The inclusion of the Explorer alongside the Velis Electro in the Canadian validation means that flight schools can now build a more holistic and modern training fleet from a single Manufacturers. They can offer initial training on a quiet, eco-friendly electric platform and then transition students to a high-performance, IFR-capable aircraft for more advanced ratings. This synergy enhances the training experience and provides a clear progression for aspiring pilots.
The certification of these Pipistrel aircraft is more than just an expansion of available models; it’s a catalyst for change within the Canadian aviation sector. It directly addresses several key industry trends, including the push for sustainability, the need to modernize training fleets, and the ongoing effort to make aviation more accessible and cost-effective. This move by Transport Canada reflects a forward-thinking Regulations approach, embracing new technologies that promise to shape the future of flight.
For flight schools, the immediate impact will be the ability to offer training on state-of-the-art equipment. This can be a significant competitive advantage, attracting both students and instructors who are eager to work with the latest technology. The lower operating costs of the Velis Electro, in particular, could translate into more affordable flight training, potentially expanding the pool of prospective pilots. Furthermore, the introduction of electric aircraft into the curriculum provides a unique opportunity to train pilots on the technologies they will likely encounter throughout their careers.
The validation of the Pipistrel Velis Electro, Explorer, and Velis Club by Transport Canada marks the beginning of a new chapter for aviation in the country. It is a clear endorsement of sustainable technologies and a significant step toward modernizing the nation’s flight training infrastructure. By allowing these innovative aircraft to operate in Canadian skies, regulators have unlocked new possibilities for flight schools, pilots, and the broader aviation community. This decision paves the way for a quieter, cleaner, and more efficient approach to flying.
Looking ahead, this development is likely to accelerate the adoption of electric and high-efficiency aircraft across Canada and potentially influence other regulatory bodies worldwide. As more pilots gain experience with these technologies, the industry will move closer to a future where sustainable aviation is the norm, not the exception. The collaboration between manufacturers like Pipistrel, regulators like Transport Canada, and forward-thinking institutions is crucial for driving this transformation and ensuring that the next generation of aviation is safer, smarter, and more sustainable.
Question: What aircraft were certified by Transport Canada? Question: What is significant about the Pipistrel Velis Electro? Question: How will this certification impact flight training in Canada?
Canada Opens Its Skies to a New Era of Aviation with Pipistrel Certification
The Aircraft Leading the Charge
The Velis Electro: A Silent Revolution in Flight Training
The Explorer: Built for Adventure and Advanced Training
Implications for the Canadian Aviation Industry
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Canadian Aviation
FAQ
Answer: Transport Canada issued type certificate validation for the Pipistrel Velis Electro, the Pipistrel Explorer, and the Velis Club..
Answer: The Velis Electro is the world’s first and currently only fully electric type-certified aircraft. It is known for its zero emissions and very low noise profile of only 60 decibels, making it ideal for flight training..
Answer: It will allow Canadian flight schools to incorporate these modern, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly aircraft into their training programs. This provides advanced training opportunities and prepares pilots for future aviation technologies..
Sources
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Training & Certification
Star Flight Training Adds Four Tecnam P-Mentor Aircraft to Fleet
Star Flight Training in Virginia expands its fleet with four fuel-efficient Tecnam P-Mentor aircraft featuring advanced IFR avionics for pilot training.
This article is based on an official press release from Tecnam Aircraft.
Star Flight Training, a flight school based in Roanoke, Virginia, has officially expanded its training fleet with the acquisition of four new Tecnam P-Mentor aircraft. The strategic addition aims to modernize the school’s operations by introducing next-generation, instrument flight rules (IFR)-equipped trainers to its student pilots.
According to a press release issued by Tecnam Aircraft, the new P-Mentor fleet will provide Star Flight Training with advanced avionics and a purpose-built airframe designed specifically for modern flight education. The aircraft are intended to support students from their initial discovery flights all the way through advanced commercial certifications.
We note that the integration of these aircraft reflects a broader industry trend of flight schools upgrading aging fleets with more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced platforms to better prepare cadets for professional airline careers.
The Tecnam P-Mentor is marketed as a highly efficient training platform that significantly reduces operating costs and environmental impact compared to legacy trainers.
A primary driver for the acquisition is the aircraft’s fuel efficiency. In the official press release, Star Flight Training highlighted the economic benefits of operating the P-Mentor for extended training sessions.
“The fuel consumption on the Tecnam P-Mentor is excellent. It burns roughly half the fuel of many traditional training aircraft, which allows us to operate for extended training missions throughout the day while maintaining strong operational efficiency.”
By cutting fuel consumption in half, the Virginia-based flight school can maximize aircraft utilization and keep training costs manageable for students pursuing Private Pilot, Instrument, Commercial, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII) ratings.
Beyond fuel savings, the P-Mentor features a modern glass cockpit that mirrors the technology students will eventually use in commercial airliners. Matt Hunt, Office Manager at Star Flight Training, noted in the release that the school is committed to providing high-quality training with the best available equipment, delivering a premier experience that students appreciate. The delivery of the four P-Mentor aircraft was facilitated through LifeStyle Aviation, a leading North American distributor of Tecnam Aircraft. Founded in 2007, LifeStyle Aviation specializes in aircraft sales and ownership solutions for flight schools and private owners.
John Armstrong, Founder and CEO of LifeStyle Aviation, emphasized the necessity of modern equipment for today’s aviation academies.
“Flight schools today need aircraft that are efficient, durable, and designed specifically for training. The Tecnam P-Mentor delivers exactly that. We’re proud to partner with Star Flight Training as they build a modern fleet that will help train the next generation of pilots.”
Tecnam’s leadership also celebrated the expansion. Walter Da Costa, Tecnam Chief Sales Officer, stated in the company’s release that the United States market continues to recognize the economic and educational value of the P-Mentor platform. He added that the aircraft ensures a seamless transition for cadets moving into professional airline careers.
We observe that Star Flight Training’s acquisition of four Tecnam P-Mentors underscores a critical shift in the flight training sector. As legacy training aircraft, many of which were manufactured decades ago, approach the end of their economically viable service lives, flight schools are increasingly turning to modern European manufacturers like Tecnam. The P-Mentor’s ability to offer IFR capabilities combined with substantially lower fuel burn addresses two of the most pressing challenges for flight schools: rising operational costs and the need to train students on contemporary glass-panel avionics. This move not only positions Star Flight Training competitively in the Virginia market but also aligns with the broader aviation industry’s push toward sustainability and enhanced safety standards.
According to the Tecnam press release, Star Flight Training acquired four IFR-equipped Tecnam P-Mentor aircraft.
The flight school is based at the Roanoke Regional Airport (KROA) in Roanoke, Virginia.
The school cited the aircraft’s modern avionics, excellent handling characteristics, and significant fuel efficiency, burning roughly half the fuel of traditional training aircraft, as key reasons for the acquisition.
Sources: Tecnam Aircraft
Enhancing Flight Training Operations
Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings
Advanced Avionics for Future Aviators
Strategic Partnerships Driving Fleet Upgrades
Distributor and Manufacturer Perspectives
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft did Star Flight Training acquire?
Where is Star Flight Training located?
Why did the school choose the Tecnam P-Mentor?
Photo Credit: Tecnam
Training & Certification
One-G Simulation Launches Tarbes 9.00 TBM 900 Flight Simulator
One-G Simulation introduces the Tarbes 9.00, a high-fidelity TBM 900 flight training device developed using real aircraft data for enhanced pilot training.
Seattle-based manufacturer One-G Simulation has officially launched the Tarbes 9.00, a full-scale, high-fidelity flight training device designed to replicate the Daher TBM 900. According to reporting by Yahoo Tech, this new simulator represents a significant step forward for the company, which previously developed training devices for the TBM 700 and TBM 800 aircraft.
What sets the Tarbes 9.00 apart from its predecessors is the company’s shift in research and development methodology. Rather than relying solely on manufacturer data and published manuals, One-G engineers utilized an actual TBM 900 aircraft to gather empirical data. By conducting structured flight testing and ground operations, the team was able to capture real-world performance characteristics, control responses, and systems behavior.
The high-performance simulator was commissioned by Executive Flight Training, a facility specializing in advanced pilot preparation. We understand that this device will serve as a cornerstone for their training curriculum, allowing pilots to experience realistic, scenario-based emergencies safely on the ground.
Historically, simulator manufacturers have depended heavily on a combination of customer feedback, aircraft manufacturer specifications, and published resource materials. However, Yahoo Tech reports that One-G Simulation evolved its process for the Tarbes 9.00 by directly accessing a physical aircraft. This hands-on approach allowed engineers to extract precise data to drive the simulator’s flight model and avionics fidelity.
Xylon Saltzman, founder and CEO of One-G Simulation, emphasized the value of this empirical data gathering in improving the overall fidelity of the training device.
“We’re using the Tarbes as an R&D platform to get empirical data and then directly apply that to the software,” Saltzman told Yahoo Tech.
He further noted that every dimension of the cockpit, including ergonomics and flight characteristics, was derived directly from flying the actual aircraft.
One of the most significant engineering hurdles during the development of the Tarbes 9.00 was accurately emulating the TBM 900’s unique throttle quadrant. Industry research indicates that the Daher TBM 900, introduced in March 2014, features a redesigned cockpit that consolidates traditional multi-lever controls into a single mechanical lever operating in a gated “H” pattern.
This single lever controls both engine power and propeller RPM, with the left side managing thrust for taxiing and flight, and the right side managing engine start and cutoff conditions. Replicating the mechanical resistance and feel of this specific component required extensive engineering. “From a mechanical standpoint, it was very complicated to emulate, and so it took many hours of development passes to get that right,” Saltzman explained to Yahoo Tech.
The Tarbes 9.00 was specifically commissioned by Executive Flight Training (EFT), an advanced flight training provider based in Beaufort, South Carolina. According to industry data, EFT is led by CEO Douglas Carmody, a former airline captain with over 30,000 flight hours. The facility focuses on insurance-approved training for high-performance aircraft.
By integrating the Tarbes 9.00 into their program, EFT aims to provide pilots with a highly accurate environment to practice complex, high-workload scenarios that would be too risky to execute in a real aircraft.
“The accuracy of the cockpit layout, control loading, and avionics allows our instructors to deliver realistic, scenario-based training that closely mirrors the aircraft,” Carmody stated in the Yahoo Tech report.
The Tarbes 9.00 features a model-specific flight deck equipped with a faithful replica of the Garmin G1000 avionics suite. Supplementary industry research notes that the device includes dynamic 3-axis force-feedback control loading and electrically actuated elevator trim to further enhance realism.
For flight schools and training centers interested in acquiring the device, Yahoo Tech reports that the standard turnaround time from order placement to delivery is approximately three to four months, though customization requests may extend this timeline.
The development of the Tarbes 9.00 highlights a critical shift in the Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) market. By moving away from purely theoretical or manual-based modeling toward empirical, in-cockpit data collection, manufacturers like One-G Simulation are blurring the lines between affordable flight school simulators and the multi-million dollar Level-D full-motion simulators traditionally reserved for major airlines.
We view this trend as a significant net positive for aviation safety. High-performance single-engine turboprops like the TBM 900, capable of cruising at 330 knots with a range of over 1,700 nautical miles, demand rigorous pilot proficiency. Providing instructors with highly accurate, model-specific tools allows for the safe rehearsal of catastrophic failures, ultimately building better muscle memory and decision-making skills without risking a valuable airframe or human lives.
The Tarbes 9.00 is a full-scale, high-fidelity flight training device that replicates the Daher TBM 900, a high-performance single-engine turboprop.
Unlike previous models that relied on published data, One-G Simulation engineers used an actual TBM 900 aircraft to conduct structured in-flight and ground testing, gathering empirical data to drive the simulator’s software and hardware. According to the manufacturer, the standard turnaround time from order to delivery is approximately three to four months, depending on specific customization requests.
Yahoo Tech
Introduction to the Tarbes 9.00
Engineering the Tarbes 9.00
A New Approach to Research and Development
Replicating the Single Power Lever
Enhancing Pilot Training
Executive Flight Training’s Curriculum
Hardware and Delivery Specifications
Industry Impact
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft does the Tarbes 9.00 simulate?
How was the simulator developed?
What is the delivery timeline for a Tarbes 9.00 unit?
Sources
Industry Research
Photo Credit: One-G Simulation
Training & Certification
Bell and Semper Fly Launch Bell 206B Training Facility in Oklahoma
Bell Textron and Semper Fly Helicopters open a certified training facility in Norman, Oklahoma, expanding Bell 206B helicopter training for commercial and defense sectors.
This article is based on an official press release from Textron Inc.
Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc., has partnered with Semper Fly Helicopters to establish a new Bell Certified Training Facility (CTF) in Norman, Oklahoma. Announced on March 10, 2026, this initiative is designed to expand regional training solutions specifically for the Bell 206B helicopter, catering to commercial aircraft operators and future defense contracts.
According to the official press release, the collaboration positions both organizations to jointly pursue advanced military aircraft aviation training initiatives. A primary target mentioned in the announcement is the U.S. Army Flight School Next Program, signaling a strategic push into federal defense training contracts.
We understand from the company statement that this move is part of a broader effort to deliver trusted expertise closer to customers’ operational bases, ensuring that high-quality instruction remains accessible and affordable.
Semper Fly Helicopters is identified in the release as a veteran-owned and woman-owned small business. The company currently operates an FAA Part 141 helicopter flight training program and serves as the flight training provider for the University of Oklahoma’s aviation program.
By certifying Semper Fly as an official Bell Training organization, Bell aims to offer its 206B customers expanded options for training locations. The press release emphasizes that these regional facilities will maintain the same rigorous standards as the primary Bell Training Academy. The curriculum at the new Norman facility will include critical flight skills, such as autorotations, which the manufacturer highlights as a cornerstone of its safety and proficiency protocols.
“This collaboration reflects Bell’s commitment to delivering exceptional pilot training while fostering growth in the aviation and defense infrastructure in Oklahoma,” said Chad Sparks, general manager of the Bell Training Academy, in the press release. “By combining Bell’s innovative technology and training expertise with Semper Fly’s veteran-led approach, we are creating a regional solution that meets the highest standards of safety and quality.”
The partnership represents a targeted investment by Bell into Oklahoma’s growing aerospace and defense community. By leveraging Bell’s extensive standardization processes and training technology, Semper Fly is expected to scale its capabilities to meet both commercial and military demands.
Brandi Rector, CEO of Semper Fly, noted that the collaboration reflects a mutual dedication to safety and the continuous advancement of vertical aviation training. “Bell’s reputation for delivering exceptional pilot training speaks for itself, and we are honored to now stand alongside them as a Bell Certified Training Facility,” Rector stated in the company announcement. “Together, we are not only training pilots, we are helping shape the future of vertical aviation.”
We note that expanding certified training facilities allows major aerospace manufacturers like Bell to decentralize their training footprint. This strategy effectively reduces travel burdens and operational downtime for commercial operators who rely on the Bell 206B platform.
Furthermore, aligning with a veteran-owned business that already services a major university aviation program provides a strong, credible foundation for pursuing federal defense contracts. The explicit mention of the U.S. Army Flight School Next Program in the press release indicates that Bell is positioning this Oklahoma facility as a key asset in its military training portfolio. This localized approach not only strengthens regional aerospace infrastructure but also creates a scalable model for future defense training requirements.
According to the press release, the facility will provide regional training solutions for the Bell 206B helicopter and position the organizations to pursue advanced defense aviation training programs.
The facility is operated by Semper Fly Helicopters, which is based in Norman, Oklahoma.
The company operates an FAA Part 141 helicopter flight training program and provides instruction for the University of Oklahoma’s aviation program.
Bell and Semper Fly Launch New Certified Training Facility in Oklahoma
Expanding Regional Access for Bell 206B Operators
Commercial and Defense Training Goals
Strategic Growth in Oklahoma’s Aviation Sector
Fostering the Next Generation of Aviators
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the new Bell Certified Training Facility?
Where is the new training facility located?
What certifications does Semper Fly Helicopters hold?
Sources
Photo Credit: Bell Textron
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