In a powerful statement of innovation and readiness, Swiss-based electric aviation pioneer H55 and Czech aircraft manufacturer Bristell have unveiled a breakthrough in general aviation: the only flight trainer aircraft certified under CS/FAR-23 available in both all-electric and combustion versions.
Unveiled at this year’s EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the dual-version Bristell B23 product line is on display at Booths #296 & 297. At the heart of the electric offering is the B23 Energic, powered by H55’s proprietary Electric Propulsion System (EPS)—a clean, quiet, and fully integrated solution tailored to the demands of modern flight training.
The B23 Energic is the result of a close collaboration between Bristell and H55, co-founded by members of the famed Solar Impulse team: André Borschberg, Sébastien Demont, and Gregory Blatt. With type certification under EASA CS-23 expected in the first half of 2026 and entry into service in the USA slated for 2027, the aircraft is designed for zero-emission flight training with the same performance reliability of piston-powered aircraft.
A Dual Offering for a New Era
This milestone represents more than a technical achievement—it presents a clear, commercially viable path for the transition to electric aviation. The ability for flight schools and general aviation operators to choose between combustion and electric under a single airframe platform is a compelling proposition, particularly in light of tightening environmental standards and increasing interest in sustainable operations.
“Flying around the world without fuel proved what was possible. With H55, we’re making electric flight practical and accessible,” said André Borschberg, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of H55. “During our Across America tour, we’ve completed nearly 200 passenger flights—and not a single person stepped out without a smile. It’s a powerful confirmation that electric aviation isn’t just part of the future—it’s a key pillar of today.”
Commercial Momentum Builds
With the first two years of production already sold out, demand is surging across both the U.S. and Europe. H55’s Founder’s Pioneer Edition offer has generated strong interest, with deposits and signed Letters of Interest nearly fully allocated. What once seemed experimental is now firmly entering the mainstream.
Kristen Jurn, North American Sales Manager, noted: “After flying in seven of the eight states on tour and speaking with hundreds of pilots, instructors, and operators, one thing is clear—electric flight is no longer a prototype story. The B23 Energic is real, it’s certified in Europe next year, and FAA certification will soon follow. It’s quiet, clean, and far more cost-effective to operate—and those who are ready to lead the transition are already lining up.”
The B23 Energic in Detail
With over 160 takeoffs and landings during its Across America tour and a flawless safety record, the B23 Energic is proving its credentials. Key features include:
- Quiet & Comfortable: A vibration-free, low-noise cabin that reduces pilot fatigue and improves concentration.
- Operational Simplicity: No oil changes, spark plugs, magnetos, or fuel imbalance issues. Just power up and fly.
- Efficient Ground Operations: Short checklists, no engine run-ups, and minimal taxi energy use mean near-identical block and flight times.
- Endurance & Charging: Up to 90 minutes of endurance with a recharge time to match. Compatible with standard DC CCS automotive chargers.
A Mission in Motion
Since April, H55 has taken its message coast to coast, engaging flight schools, airport authorities, regulators, and academic institutions. Their aim: to redefine general aviation with a new standard that is clean, quiet, and commercially sustainable.
For a hands-on experience, visitors at Oshkosh can tour the aircraft, see the EPS up close, and receive in-cockpit briefings from H55 pilots at Booths #296 and #297.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: H55

