Performance and Operational Comparison of the Pipistrel Velis Electro with a Turbocharged Diesel Cessna 172

Abstract

This paper compares a diesel-powered and a fully electric trainer aircraft. The aim is to demonstrate the differences in performance, operating costs, maintenance, training usability, and environmental impacts of the two propulsion technologies. The analysis is based on real flight school experiences and technical data. The results clearly show that the diesel aircraft provides higher performance and a much wider range of usability, while the electric type has really low operating costs, quiet operation, and minimal local environmental impact. The study highlights that each aircraft has its own advantages and disadvantages that could be utilized by different flight schools in different ways.