Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

Germany’s Elektra Solar is targeting Asian markets including China for its Elektra Trainer two-seat aircraft. The battery-electric model, which was certified last year under German ultralight rules, has a standard flight endurance of two and a half hours.
During the <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-12-05/aero-asia-show-highlights-advanced-air-mobility-ambitions">Aero Asia show</a> held in Zhuhai in late November, the manufacturer displayed the aircraft with its new Chinese subsidiary, Jiangsu Shengyi Aviation Technology. According to founder Konstantin Kondak, China has become a key hub for electric aviation, with higher rates of investment in the sector than in the U.S. or Europe.
“There are many interesting projects running in China, and there are many remarkable achievements,” Kondak told AIN. “We think that with Elektra Trainer and Jiangsu Shengyi Aviation Technology, we are in the right place at the right time.”
The cockpit features a 15.6-inch high-definition touchscreen display that can connect to apps and provide real-time updates on power reserves. It has hands-on-throttle-and-stick controls for core functions including power, reverse, brakes, and trim.
Priced at €200,000 ($238,000), the Elektra can also be used for private flying with a range of up to 300 km (about 163 nm), which can be boosted with optional extra battery packs. According to the company, a 12-kilowatt charging system can recharge an empty battery in three hours. The cruise speed is around 65 knots.
Elektra has been developing the aircraft for more than 14 years and first flew an earlier Elektra One model in 2011. It is now seeking EASA certification under light sports aircraft standards, and has plans in the longer term for four- and nine-seat versions.
Kondak acknowledged to AIN that the European market for electric aircraft remains relatively slow, noting that since the technology is still new and operational experience is limited, residual market values remain uncertain. Nonetheless, Elektra has logged sales to private owners and flight schools in Germany.
Looking ahead, Kondak said that within five years, two- and four-seat electric aircraft should be capable of flight times of three to four hours and ranges of almost 270 nm.

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