Marks Key Step Towards Flight and Certification

Lilium, a regional air mobility company, recently completed the first systems power-up of its eVTOL jet. This successful test is a significant milestone on the path towards the aircraft’s first flight and certification.

900 volts were driven to the Lilium Jet and transferred to supply its low-voltage electrical systems, including instruments, flight controls, communication, navigation, and related avionics.

“Power-on is an important quality gate in the production process of any commercial aircraft,” expressed Stephen Vellacott, Lilium CTO. “The two Lilium Jets now on our final assembly line, and those to come, will be conforming aircraft, built to the specifications of our design organization, according to documented processes and in line with established aerospace procedures.”

The Lilium Jet features 30 battery-electric motors and canards' flaps that tilt downwards during hover and align flush once in cruise for improved aerodynamic performance. It has a 3-meter cabin, offering various configurations to serve commercial, personal, EMS, and cargo needs. The eVTOL’s fly-by-wire system integrates sensor data and pilot inputs for envelope protection and differential thrust management. The flight deck utilizes Honeywell Anthem technology. With a full charge, the Lilium Jet can support cruise speeds of 154 mph for a 109-mile maximum range.

Lilium finalized the first phase of electrical integration testing at the company’s dedicated electrical power system lab (EPSL) in August.

The system power-on check was performed on Lilium’s first in-production jet, the MSN 1. This aircraft is slated to be used as Lilium’s official lab tester, or “ironbird.” When fully operational, the MS1 will assist in demonstrating flight safety, airworthiness compliance, and certification readiness.

Lilium’s second jet, the MSN 2, is in its final stages of assembly. It is intended to be the first Lilium Jet to complete crewed operations, scheduled for early 2025.

“When it comes to aircraft production, process control, repeatability, traceability, and above all safety is paramount. Achieving this first power-on milestone demonstrates that we’re on track,” continued Vellacott.

FMI: www.lilium.com