ABOVE: The Elixir aircraft is already proving popular in the flight training role.
The Civil Aviation Authority has awarded type certification to French aircraft manufacturer Elixir Aircraft, with the 100hp VFR variant already in receipt of European Aviation Safety Agency EASA CS-23 type certification.
Founded in 2015 and based in La Rochelle, Elixir Aircraft is building a low-wing, two-seater, composite aircraft, powered by a Rotax 912iS. It employs specialist ‘OneShot’ construction technology (leveraged from competitive sailing vessels) that negates certain structural assemblies, thereby giving the Elixir ‘unique qualities, both in terms of safety and operating costs,’ explains the manufacturer. Additionally, a BRS parachute – added independently of the certification requirements – is included as standard in the Elixir.
There are currently 27 Elixir aircraft in operation at French fight schools, with the company boasting a further 300 orders and letters of intent. These include an order from British training provider Leading Edge Aviation, which will operate the aircraft from its Spanish base. Rubric Aviation will also operate the type from Fife Flight Centre, Scotland, with Rubric Aviation CEO Ian Henderson explaining: “Elixir planes embody the pinnacle of innovation, performance, and reliability”.
As production scales, another facility near La Rochelle will prove instrumental in augmenting its production site in Périgny, Charente Maritime (which has brought production of all carbon parts in-house since the end of 2021). With FAA type certification also expected, Elixir is also preparing to open a new 15,000 square metre production facility in Sarasota, Florida, which will focus on the reassembly of aircraft intended for delivery to clients in the US.
IMAGE: ELIXIR AIRCRAFT
