Leaving on a... battery powered plane!

China's first manned electric aircraft is ready for production

The RX1E aircraft is powered by rechargeable lithium batteries 

The plane can fly for 45-60 minutes on one 90 minute charge

It will be used to train pilots and conduct sightseeing flights

The model was given approval for production on Thursday

China's first manned electric aircraft has been given a licence for production. 

The two seater plane was designed by Shenyang Aerospace University and Liaoning General Aviation Academy in north eastern Liaoning province, the People's Daily Online reports. 

The RX1E is powered by rechargeable lithium batteries. One 90 minute charge means that the aircraft can operate for around 45-60 minutes.  

According to the academy, there have been 28 orders placed for the model so far

The country's first electric powered aircraft has been given the go-ahead for production