Matthijs Collard is the co-founder and responsible manager for E-Flight Academy - a modern pilot training company in Teuge Netherlands. They fly 90% of the hours towards a Private Pilots License in electric aircraft, the Pipistrel Velis Electro. They hold several records on SkyZero.io - including most flight hours for a single electric aircraft (beating Joby and BETA), and also for the most electric aircraft movements at any single airport, EHTE.

We interview him about what it was like building a flight curriculum around electric aircraft, the solar mini-grid they installed, and how they got started.

Corrections from this interview!

I state incorrectly that:

1) the H55 Bristell Energic is certified in EU and with the FAA. It is not, yet, these certifications are expected in 2026 and 2027 respectively.

2) the Velis Electro is "certified" - there is an FAA exemption for all operators of the Velis Electro under the Light Sport Aircraft category for training, it is not yet type certified in the USA. It is type certified in Canada.

https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2024/march/07/faa-grants-exemption-for-velis-electro

https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-11-16/transport-canada-certifies-three-pipistrel-light-aircraft