In a move that signals a major leap forward for sustainable aviation, Airways Aviation, a global leader in professional flight training, has signed an agreement with Diamond Aircraft at the Paris Air Show to acquire five all-electric eDA40 training aircraft. This marks the first EASA/FAA Part 23-certified all-electric aircraft designed specifically for the pilot training sector and potentially sets the tone for future developments across the African continent.
A Catalyst for Green Aviation in Africa
While the agreement originates in Europe, its implications for African aviation are profound. As the continent rapidly expands its aviation footprint both in passenger and pilot training demand — the shift to sustainable flight training solutions offers a blueprint for how Africa’s emerging aviation academies and regulators can leapfrog traditional models.
Africa is projected to be one of the fastest-growing aviation regions globally, with organizations such as IATA estimating a 5.7% annual growth rate in passenger numbers. But alongside this growth lies a critical challenge: How can Africa expand sustainably, especially with a growing emphasis on carbon neutrality in global aviation policy?
The eDA40 could form part of the answer.
“This agreement reinforces our vision to drive sustainability and innovation across all facets of aviation training,” said Romy Hawatt, Founder and Chairman of Airways Aviation. “The eDA40 represents a significant step forward in reducing carbon emissions and operational costs without compromising the high training standards we are known for.”
In an African context, where electricity availability varies but solar power potential is abundant, the integration of electric aircraft could provide lower-cost and cleaner training models for the next generation of African pilots.
Lower Emissions, Lower Costs – A Gamechanger for African Flight Schools?
The eDA40 brings a fully electric propulsion system, a significantly reduced noise footprint, and lower direct operating costs compared to conventional piston-engine aircraft a combination that could make it a gamechanger for African flight training academies, many of which face high fuel and maintenance costs.
“As global demand for pilots continues to rise, our clients and airline partners expect training organisations to lead on efficiency, technology, and sustainability,” added Alexandre Alves, Group Chief Commercial Officer at Airways Aviation. “This investment sends a clear message: Airways Aviation is ready to meet those expectations and set new industry benchmarks.”
Several African countries — notably South Africa, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Kenya — are actively expanding their pilot training pipelines to meet growing regional demand. If adopted locally, the eDA40 and its successors could help reduce costs, noise, and carbon footprints in African aviation academies, while also making training more accessible.
The Global Push Meets Africa’s Potential
Diamond Aircraft has already been a fixture in many African training fleets. Their DA20s, DA40s, and DA42s are widely used by leading aviation academies in South Africa, Namibia, Egypt, and Morocco. With the eDA40, Diamond Aircraft deepens its commitment to clean aviation and expands its legacy into the electric age.
“We are excited that our long-term customer Airways Aviation has chosen to acquire the eDA40 once again at the Paris Airshow 2025,” said Jane Wang, Sales Director at Diamond Aircraft Austria. “This investment highlights our shared commitment to cutting-edge technology, sustainability in flight training, and further strengthens our strategic partnership.”
This development could inspire African aviation authorities and training institutions to begin serious feasibility studies into adopting electric training aircraft, especially given that most pilot training programs remain dependent on aging, carbon-intensive aircraft.
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