100 Lilium Jets Included in Memorandum of Understanding Between German eVTOL Manufacture and Sauid Flag Carrier

Saudia, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has signed an MoU with Lilium for the development and operation of an extensive eVTOL network across the country along with a purchase for 100 Lilium Jets. 

If the project comes to fruition, Saudia will become the first sustainable, zero-emission passenger aircraft operation, offering electric point-to-point connections across the country. Once complete, the fleet of 100 Jets will help to connect a network of feeder connections to Saudia hubs for business class passengers. The type is expected to attain regulatory approval in Saudi Arabia with the assistance of the carrier, helping the German company navigate the process of a not-too-common certification program. Once ready for duty, the airline expects to use the jet’s flexible cabin architecture to the fullest to develop a “range of spacious interior configurations that are well suited to the needs of the premium market”, meeting domestic expectations regarding interior quality in travel.

Captain Ibrahim S. Koshy, CEO of Saudia said: “Saudia, building on its commitment to be an industry leading airline committed to sustainability, consider our eVTOL network project with Lilium to be an undertaking of great significance for the Kingdom’s aviation industry and will contribute effectively to spurring sustainable tourism in Saudi using zero-emission aviation. Saudia intends to meet a growing demand for regional air mobility and offer our valued guests a superior on-board experience. The potential for such an airborne transit network is limitless.”

Alexander Asseily, Vice Chairman of Lilium said: “We are thrilled to work 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 deploy an eVTOL network across Saudi Arabia.”

FMI: www.saudia.com