An electric aircraft is an aircraft that is propelled through the air by an onboard electric motor. In contrast, traditional aircraft use gasoline or jet fuel to power an internal combustion engine. Electric aircraft are not a recent innovation with the earliest known electrically powered dirigible airship dating back to the late 1800s. However, a recent surge has occurred in electric aircraft development and adoption over the past 10 years due to environmental concerns, enhanced performance offered by emerging electric motor and battery technology, and significantly reduced maintenance costs associated with electric aircraft. Many plane and helicopter manufacturers are already selling one or more types of electric aircraft, which are expected to comprise a large portion of the personal aircraft market within the next 20 years.
A Short History Of The Electric Aircraft
1883 Tissandier Electric Airship 
1973 Militky MB-E1 Electric Airplane
Who Makes Electric Aircraft?
The following manufacturers make electric aircraft:
 | FlyNano Models: FlyNano |
 | Opener Models: Blackfly |
 | Vertical Aerospace Models: Poc, Seraph, VA-1X |
 | Watfly Models: Atlas |
Electric Aircraft In The News
What Is An Electric Aircraft?
An electric aircraft is an aircraft that is propelled through the air by an onboard electric motor. In contrast, traditional aircraft use gasoline or jet fuel to power an internal…
Sources
Manufacturers: FlyNano, Opener, Vertical Aerospace, Watfly
Colin is the Editor-In-Chief at Electric Guide and writes about electric mobility. With a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from SDSU, Colin presents a unique point of view in his articles, offering both technical expertise and extensive user experience with electric vehicles. Colin also writes for our sister publication Wear.guide.
Send tips and story ideas to Colin at: colin@electric.guide
