Phoenix, Arizona – 28 May 2025 — In a defining moment for sustainable aviation, Swiss-based H55, the electric propulsion pioneer born from the groundbreaking Solar Impulse project, has completed its 104th U.S. electric landing in Arizona using its fully electric Bristell B23 Energic aircraft. This milestone, achieved during the third leg of the company’s “Across USA Tour,” cements Arizona’s role as a proving ground for clean aviation innovation.
The Bristell B23 Energic’s five-day mission in Arizona brought H55 face-to-face with the future of flight training. From searing desert temperatures to high-traffic airspace, the aircraft demonstrated its exceptional performance, capturing the attention of flight schools, FBOs, and professional pilots across the state. The all-electric aircraft completed 20 demo flights, flew 17 certified flight instructors (CFIs), and connected with 25 flight schools.
A Powerful Homecoming for Clean Flight
Kristen Jurn, H55’s North American Sales Manager, reflected on the emotional and symbolic return to Phoenix: “Arizona delivered far more than sunshine—it offered a powerful look into the future of flight training. Crossing our 104th landing here—the city where I earned my instrument and commercial pilot certifications, and where Solar Impulse landed twice—is symbolic. It reflects the progress we’ve made, from early possibilities to practical, everyday electric aviation.”
Voices from the Cockpit
Arizona’s flight instructors and aviation leaders shared their firsthand impressions of the Bristell B23 Energic:
- “The simplicity and quiet would benefit instructors, students, and communities alike. The silence reduces fatigue, and the handling is intuitive.” — Kyle Sauvageau, Scottsdale Executive Flight Training
- “It was awesome! The quiet and clarity of communication made a big difference. It’s a truly great trainer aircraft.” — Mitchell Rasmuson, Sierra Charlie Aviation
- “It’s smoother and quieter than a Cessna. As a student pilot, that really helps you focus. It’s easier to fly and more comfortable.” — Kailee McGough, Leopard Aviation
From Visionary Flight to Viable Training
Arizona holds deep historical resonance for H55. It was here, in May 2013, that Solar Impulse first landed during its Across America mission. Three years later, its successor returned during a historic circumnavigation. Today, H55’s certified electric aircraft is flying from the same soil—no longer as a prototype, but as a commercially viable product.
“This isn’t about showcasing a concept,” said H55 Co-Founder and Across USA Tour Mission Director Gregory Blatt. “It’s about delivering a certified, operational solution. Arizona’s support gives us real momentum as we continue the tour.”
Tour Highlights and Community Engagement
- Airports visited: Mesa Falcon Field (FFZ) & Scottsdale Airport (SDL)
- Total flights conducted: 20
- Pilots flown: 21 (17 CFIs/CFIIs and 4 aviation operation owners)
- Flight schools engaged: 25
- Community outreach: ASU, ERAU Prescott, Women in Aviation International, Arizona Pilots Association, Valley of the Sun Electric Vehicle Association, and more
In a touching moment, Drew, a CFII at Falcon Field, recalled witnessing Solar Impulse in Phoenix at age 14. Now flying with H55, he carries a new keychain on his flight bag, symbolising the transition from inspiration to participation in electric flight.
Next Stops: Nevada and California
H55’s Across USA Tour continues westward to Henderson Executive Airport, Nevada (2–6 June 2025), and then on to Palo Alto, California (15–22 June 2025). With each stop, H55 is redefining what’s possible in flight training and sustainable general aviation.
SOURCE AND IMAGE©: H55
