An extremely maneuverable aircraft : Major General of the Air and Space Army tests the INTEGRAL R from Aura Aero in Toulouse

On Monday, February 23rd, the Air and Space Army (AAE) major general visited the Toulouse-Francazal airport, where the aircraft manufacturer Aura Aero is based. General Dominique Tardif, who is familiar with the aircraft after a previous meeting at the Paris Air Show, was able to visit the Toulouse site “close to the teams and the aircraft”. The company described it as “an important moment”, marked by the pride of its employees to see the AAE’s number two pilot one of their aircraft.

“Excellent Flight”

During the visit, General Tardif did not just have a courtesy visit. The former pilot also sat in the cockpit to test the INTEGRAL R, the thermal engine aircraft designed for aerobatics.

With thousands of flight hours under his belt, the military officer provided a clear opinion on the aircraft, describing it as “extremely maneuverable, easily controllable”. He added, “We were able to perform some aerobatic figures and appreciate all its qualities in this field, with excellent safety margins. Excellent flight, thank you Aura Aero.”

The teams at the Toulouse-based aerospace company were delighted with these compliments and the general’s enthusiasm, stating that they “go straight to the heart.”

The INTEGRAL R, a technological gem well established

The INTEGRAL R project began over six years ago, with its first flight in June 2020. Since then, the aircraft has undergone a long process of testing and certification, leading to its final ESA approval in December 2024.

This two-seater aircraft for aerobatic training combines a high level of safety and great maneuverability. It is suitable for both beginner students and experienced pilots. The first unit was sold in April 2025 to the Dijon Voltige school, one of the most emblematic aeroclubs in France specializing in aerobatics. Its president, Stephane Thibodaux, explained, “The INTEGRAL R is the safest aircraft in its category, thanks in particular to the presence of a cell parachute. Safety is a critical criterion for us in choosing an aerobatic aircraft.”

Already highly optimized, the aircraft underwent a major evolution in the second half of 2025, with the addition of a personalized digital interface. This now provides full access to flight data, a detailed debriefing of flight behavior, and proactive maintenance tracking.

*Context: The article discusses the visit of the Air and Space Army’s major general to the Aura Aero facility at the Toulouse-Francazal airport and his positive feedback on the INTEGRAL R aircraft.

*Fact Check: The content seems to be accurate and free from any false or misleading information.