Pipistrel has strengthened its presence in the Canadian training market with Transport Canada’s validation of the Velis Electro, Velis Club and Explorer aircraft. The approval allows Canadian operators and flight schools to bring the models into service, broadening access to both electric and conventional training platforms.

“This validation acknowledges our engineering expertise and enhances flight training capabilities across the country,” said Gabriel Massey, president and managing director of Pipistrel.

The Velis Electro—the first EASA-certified electric aircraft—continues to gain global traction as a quiet, zero-emissions trainer. Producing just 60 decibels and offering low operating costs, it is already being evaluated in Canada by the University of Waterloo’s Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA) and the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre. Its electric engine was also the first of its kind to receive Transport Canada type-certification validation in 2024.

The Pipistrel Explorer, an enhanced version of the Virus SW 121, brings strong performance and efficiency for Canadian conditions, with approval for day and night VFR, intentional spins and IFR-ready avionics. The Velis Club adds a cost-effective primary trainer to the lineup, giving schools a complete solution from ab-initio through advanced training.

The certification unlocks new opportunities for Canadian flight training organisations seeking modern, efficient and increasingly sustainable aircraft.