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

EASA has signed a pre-application contract with Elfly covering the development of a conceptual prototype for its Noemi electric seaplane. The agreement, signed on June 18 at the Paris Air Show, is a step towards achieving type certification for the nine-passenger aircraft in 2030.
Elfly recently completed a concept-freeze review of the prototype, which it expects to start flying in 2027. The contract covers arrangements under which the Norwegian company will interact with the European aviation safety agency to discuss the program and secure the permit to fly needed to start test flights. On June 12, the company flew a one-fifth scale model of the Noemi.
EASA officials will now be involved in all aspects of development work. These include technical familiarization, design, manufacturing, and test activities for the prototype.
“We have a fuselage and wing which outperforms the venerable de Havilland Twin Otter [floatplane] by a great margin,” commented Elfly CEO Eric Lithun.
While Elfly is focused on developing the Noemi as a battery-electric seaplane, the company has indicated that it remains open to supporting alternative versions with hybrid-electric propulsion or Pratt &amp; Whitney PT6 turboprops. These options could include hydrogen propulsion.
According to the company, it has made provisional sales agreements covering 47 aircraft worth around $500 million. It said there has been interest from prospective operators worldwide for another 300 examples.
“The Noemi project represents an exciting and ambitious vision for the future of sustainable aviation, and we look forward to supporting Elfly as they progress towards a safe and flightworthy prototype,” said David Solar, EASA’s head of general aviation. “Collaborative early engagement is key to enabling innovative new aircraft like Noemi to reach the market in a safe and timely way.”

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EASA Signs Contract With Elfly for Noemi Electric Seaplane Prototype

Norwegian start-up aims to start flight testing electric seaplane in 2027

EASA officials will work with Elfly as it builds a conceptual prototype of the nine-passenger Noemi electric seaplane, which it aims to certify in 2030.

EASA Signs Contract with Elfly for Noemi Electric Seaplane Prototype

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