The Munich-based startup Lilium is developing a so-called eVTOL aircraft with fully electric vertical takeoff and landing. Saudia now plans to purchase 100 of these jets to launch a service consisting of point-to-point connections and seamless feeder connections to its hubs. The company is primarily targeting business class passengers. According to Lilium, this focus on the premium market is well-suited to promoting the early adoption of eVTOL aircraft, which is necessary for scaling.
Furthermore, it is part of the agreement concluded at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh that Saudia the Munich supported in the necessary official approval procedures for the certification of the Lilium jet and all other administrative procedures in Saudi Arabia.
Ibrahim S. Koshy, CEO of Saudia, says:
"Saudia is committed to being an industry-leading airline committed to sustainability. Our eVTOL network project with Lilium is of great importance to the Kingdom's aviation industry and will effectively contribute to promoting sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia through zero-emission air travel. Saudia intends to meet the growing demand for regional air mobility and provide an excellent in-flight experience to our valued guests. The potential for such an air transit network is limitless."
Lilium's first partnership in the Middle East
Alexander Asseily, Vice Chairman of Lilium, adds:
"We are delighted to work with innovative partners who prioritize sustainability. 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 out of the Technical University of Munich. Last year, the startup went public on the US technology exchange Nasdaq via a merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). The air taxi company secured around 496 million euros (584 million dollars) in funding. In total, the Munich-based company raised around 751 million euros in funding collect.
Saudia isn't the only airline that has pre-ordered Lilium's vertical take-off and landing aircraft. Among others, the ASL Group plans to establish an air transit network in the Benelux countries with six Lilium jets, and Helity Copter Airlines plans to operate five of the aircraft in Andalusia. Globeair also plans to operate 12 of the jets in southern France and Italy. The startup plans to begin production of its vertical take-off and landing aircraft next year.
