Elixir Aircraft unveils the Elixir+ at the opening of Aero Friedrichshafen on April 22, 2026. The Elixir+ marks a new milestone in the development of the 4th generation aircraft, dual-certified by EASA and the FAA. Renowned for its safety, low fuel consumption, controlled operating costs, and airframe with no life limit, the Elixir has become a benchmark for professional flight schools. With the Elixir+, the French manufacturer introduces technical enhancements and increased payload capacity. Greek flight school Global Aviation orders five aircraft.
Elixir+ unveiled at Aero Friedrichshafen 2026
Elixir Aircraft announces the launch of the Elixir+, a new version of its aircraft certified in Europe since 2020 and in the United States since 2025. It is being presented for the first time at the Aero Friedrichshafen show from April 22 to 25, 2026. This evolution reflects the French manufacturer’s commitment to continuously improving its aircraft, building on operator feedback and its expertise based on Carbon OneShot technology.
Increased full-fuel payload, without compromising performance
The Elixir+ stands out with a significantly increased full-fuel payload, enabled by the rise in MTOW* from 630 to 700 kg.
The Elixir+ introduces several major enhancements aimed at improving reliability and pilot comfort. The fuel pump system has also been redesigned to simplify maintenance and spare parts sourcing.
The nose landing gear has evolved, further enhancing aircraft ground behaviour and offering better tolerance to student pilots.
Elixir Aircraft thus remains true to its commitments to efficiency and simplicity, while enabling operators to carry two pilots and full fuel.
A modernized and distinctive design
The Elixir+ design incorporates new winglets, as well as vortex generators and redesigned leading edges, all contributing to improved aerodynamic performance across the entire flight envelope.
These enhancements are accompanied by an increased wingspan, from 8.48 m to 8.94 m, further improving the aircraft’s overall efficiency. A new “training” livery completes these updates, offering a more modern identity and an elevated design standard.
“With the Elixir+, we are taking a new step forward in the development of our aircraft. This evolution is the result of close attention to our customers’ feedback and our constant drive for improvement. By increasing capacity while preserving the Elixir’s core qualities, we are now offering a solution even better suited to the needs of flight schools.” said Arthur Léopold-Léger, President and Co-founder of Elixir Aircraft.
Global Aviation orders five Elixir+
Greek flight school Global Aviation is one of the first customers for the Elixir+, with an order for five aircraft. As it approaches its 30th anniversary, the school continues to pursue an ambitious strategy to modernize its fleet and infrastructure. These Elixir aircraft will be deployed for VFR training operations at Ikaros Airport, owned by Global Aviation, north of Athens. Following a thorough evaluation, the Elixir+ was selected for its performance, safety, and operational efficiency, in line with the school’s requirements. This initial acquisition marks a key milestone in the development of the fleet, which is expected to expand further to support the growing demand for pilot training in the Mediterranean region.
“We chose the Elixir+ because it aligns perfectly with where we see the future of pilot training heading—technology-driven, operationally agile, and increasingly sustainable. It enables us to deliver a more efficient and forward-looking training environment for our cadets.” said Alexandros Tsaktanis, Managing Director of Global Aviation.
*MTOW: Maximum Take-Off Weight
About Elixir Aircraft
Elixir Aircraft is a French aircraft manufacturer founded in 2015 to address the evolving needs of general aviation. Headquartered in La Rochelle, the company employs more than 200 people. Elixir Aircraft has designed and produces a 4th-generation two-seat training aircraft, certified under EASA CS-23 since 2020 and FAA FAR Part-23 since July 22, 2025. The aircraft incorporates technology inspired by competitive sailing, known as “Carbon Oneshot”, which allows the structure to be built in a single piece. This simplified design reduces the number of components, leading to fewer potential failures, improves safety, reduced maintenance, and lower operating costs (approximately $50 per flight hour for fuel and maintenance).
Today, 50 Elixir aircraft are in active operation, with more than 300 4th generation aircraft included in the company’s order book through firm orders, pre-orders and letters of intent). In June 2023, the French President announced a €13 million subsidy to support Elixir Aircraft’s growth. In early 2024, the company secured €40 million in development funding to support its next five years of operations. In June 2025, Elixir Aircraft was selected by ENAC (École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile) to renew its VFR training fleet. The company is currently preparing to open a new 15,000 m2 (160.000 sq ft) production facility in La Rochelle, along with a reassembly and delivery facility in Sarasota, Florida.
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