With their revolutionary OneShot construction process, a modern assembly line construction method in carbon fiber materials, French aerospace company Elixir Aircraft from La Rochelle have created a new standard for flight training. This development is enabling the plane’s primary structure (all nine parts of it) to be co-manufactured all together in a one-piece molding process without the need for rivets or adhesives. Based on high-performance sailing yachts, the design ensures maximum strength at minimum weight, with minimum maintenance load.
EASA-certified in the CS-23 category in 2020, Elixir’s trainer features a 100-hp Rotax engine that burns 12 liters of fuel hourly. This outstanding fuel efficiency not only reduces operating costs but also results in CO₂ emissions that are up to seventy percent lower than those produced by conventional training aircraft. The outcome is a trainer that provides contemporary levels of performance and safety, in harmony with international environmental initiatives.
A French Aerospace Star on The Rise
France has emerged as a key actor in the realm of eco-friendly aviation and Elixir Aircraft is one of its pioneers. At the Aero Friedrichshafen expo in April 2025, a delegation from Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile (DGAC and the Observatory for Sustainable Aviation (OAD) visited Elixir’s premises. Their attendance confirmed strong institutional support behind Elixir for the part it plays in helping France fulfil its climate commitments through cutting edge aeronautical engineering.
Elixir is now ramping up production in its new 17,000-square-meter factory in La Rochelle, supported by the innovation program France 2030. The aim is for Elixir to ultimately produce several hundred airplanes per year and create more than 500 jobs by 2030, placing Elixir at the heart of France’s green aviation future.
Reshaping Global Flight Training
Besides in France, the Elixir Aircraft is increasingly making a name for itself among flight schools in other countries, which are looking for more efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly solutions. The Elixir, with more than 300 aircraft on order and some 30 in service, is already emerging as the training center’s aircraft in Europe. It is also seeking FAA Part 23 certification to access the North American market.
Major training providers such as Airbus Flight Academy, ENAC (French civil aviation university) and Leading Edge Aviation (UK based) among others, further reinforce the growing recognition of Elixir within the international pilot training community. The aircraft’s low operating costs, reductions in carbon emissions and strong safety history are key attracting factors to organizations seeking to upgrade their fleet.
Carbon Efficiency for Personal Travel
Though primarily a training aircraft, the Elixir’s simple yet efficient design is very suitable for personal transportation and regional travel. With low fuel consumption and running costs, as well as low noise levels, the SportCruiser is the perfect aircraft for the private pilot, aero clubs and small business user.
Future iterations, including one that will be mated to the turbocharged Rotax 915iS engine, are anticipated to kick open the range/performance envelope further—moving the airplane from a trainer to a recreational or light business aircraft. Perhaps most impressively between all the varying setups, the full carbon fiber airframe is a consistent foundation, providing both aerodynamic optimization and long lasting performance potential.
Eco-Friendly Performance
It’s clear the Elixir has it hardwired, with a heritage and performance character based on sport. The carbonfibre lightweight structure provides excellent glide ratios and handling combined with essential structure required for demanding training schedules. With its low stall speed and responsive controls, it is a favourite amongst instructors and students.
Moving forward, Elixir is leading the way in new propulsion innovations to stay ahead in clean aviation. In June 2025 the company has done test flights of a turbine variant of the Elixir which is powered by a TP-R90 regenerative turboprop engine. These flights were a big step forward for alternative propulsion, with further tests with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) scheduled for the end of the year.
Elixir is also involved in BeautHyFuel, a national project in France dedicated to developing hydrogen powered aviation. Should it prove successful, the hydrogen Elixir would cut emissions by up to 90% making it one of the most progressive aircraft in the light aviation market.
A French Dream for The Future of Aviation
Elixir Aircraft’s path from La Rochelle to the world scene illustrates France’s leadership in aviation creativity. By combining the latest in carbon fiber technology with sustainable methods of power generation, Elixir isn’t merely reimagining how pilots are born—it’s reimagining what aviation can be.
Building on solid support from governmental institutions, a definite decarbonization roadmap and growing international demand, Elixir Aircraft is meeting the convergence of performance, environmental respect and worldwide aspiration.
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via >EPR
