Energy Insiders - a RenewEconomy Podcast All about electric planes
Jun 20, 2025
Aviation expert Adam Twidell from FlexJet, a leader in private aviation, dives into the world of electric planes. He shares thrilling insights from his experience flying the Pipistrel electric aircraft and discusses the advancements in eVTOL technology. Twidell highlights the growing interest from military and automotive sectors in electric flight and examines the challenges of battery technology and investment strategies. The conversation shifts to the future of electric aviation, including its potential and hurdles by 2030.
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Adam's Early Electric Flight Experience
- Adam Twidell got involved in electric flight by flying the Pipistrel, the first certified electric plane.
- He has over 100 flight hours and lands with 30% battery remaining as reserve.
Battery Safety Challenges in Aviation
- Aviation batteries need much higher safety standards than car batteries due to risks like thermal runaway.
- They undergo extreme tests including puncture, drop, and temperature extremes to ensure safety.
Hydrogen Safety Compared to Batteries
- Hydrogen fuel poses bigger safety risks than batteries but is comparably managed given aviation history.
- Aviation has long handled flammable liquids safely, so hydrogen challenges are manageable too.