Video: UAE residents can soon fly electric planes

From October, anyone living in the UAE can lease and fly an electric aircraft, provided they receive proper training.

The eco-friendly aircraft goes by the name Alpha Electro and is the first of its kind in the Middle East.

It can fly over 13,000 feet for 90 minutes, using two lithium batteries, and can reach a cruising speed of 180 km/h. One of the batteries is equipped to provide additional power for 30 minutes in case of an emergency.

The aircraft employs a regenerative braking technique, which allows for smooth take-off and landings, especially in short fields.

The plane is already licenced internationally after flight tests in the UAE, the US and Germany.

Individuals as young as 14 can receive a licence after a period of flight training at Ghantoot Flight Club.