Inoffiziell stellt die solarbetriebene elektrische Ebene einen neuen Höhenrekord: Am 12. August 2025 erreichte ein modifizierter Elektra One im Himmel über die Schweiz 31.237 Fuß (9.521 m). Es führte einen fünfstündigen, neunminütigen Flug vollständig unter Solarenergie durch.

Solar-powered electric plane unofficially sets new altitude record

Another air record has been (unofficially) broken as a prop-driven solar/electric aircraft reached the highest altitude yet for its type. On August 12, 2025, a modified Elektra One reached 31,237 feet (9,521 m) in the skies over Switzerland.

Taking off from Sion Airport with SolarStratos founder Raphaël Domjan at the controls, the aircraft registered as HB-SXA conducted a five-hour, nine-minute flight completely under solar power, with a two-hour ascent and a three-hour descent over the Valais Alps .

Weighing a mere 992 lb (450 kg), the aircraft had wings spanning 81.4 ft (24.8 m), which were covered with solar panels that powered a 43-bhp electric motor reportedly operating at 90% efficiency. A 20-kWh lithium-ion battery provided backup, giving the aircraft an estimated endurance of 24 hours.