The Munich-based startup Lilium is developing an eVTOL aircraft that takes off and lands vertically and is fully electric. Saudia now plans to purchase 100 of these jets to introduce a service featuring point-to-point connections as well as seamless feeder services to its hubs. The company is primarily targeting business class passengers. According to Lilium, this focus on the premium market is conducive to promoting the early adoption of eVTOL aircraft necessary for scaling.
Additionally, as part of the agreement concluded at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, Saudia will support the Munich-based company in obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals for the certification of the Lilium jet and all other regulatory procedures in Saudi Arabia.
Ibrahim S. Koshy, CEO of Saudia, says:
“Saudia is committed to being an industry-leading airline dedicated to sustainability. Our eVTOL network project with Lilium is of great significance for the Kingdom’s aviation industry and will effectively contribute to promoting sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia through zero-emission aviation. Saudia intends to meet the growing demand for regional air mobility and provide our valued guests with an exceptional border experience. The potential for such an air transit network is limitless.”
Lilium’s first partnership in the Middle East
Alexander Asseily, deputy chairman of Lilium, adds:
“We are very pleased to collaborate with innovative partners for whom sustainability is a priority. This partnership with Saudia, our first in the Middle East, is an exciting development for Lilium. We look forward to working with Saudia to build an eVTOL network across Saudi Arabia.”
Lilium was founded in 2015 as a spinoff from the Technical University of Munich. Last year, the startup went public on the US technology exchange Nasdaq through a merger with a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC). In doing so, the air taxi company secured approximately 496 million euros (584 million dollars). In total, the Munich-based company has raised around 751 million euros in funding.
Saudia is not the only airline that has pre-ordered Lilium’s vertical takeoff aircraft. Among others, ASL Group plans to build an air transit network in the Benelux countries with 6 Lilium jets, and Helity Copter Airlines wants to operate 5 of the aircraft in Andalusia. In southern France and Italy, Globeair plans to deploy 12 of the jets. The startup intends to begin production of its vertical takeoff aircraft next year.
