German electric aviation company Lilium has announced that it has signed a binding sales agreement for up to 100 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft with Saudia Group. Formerly known as Saudi Arabian Airlines, Saudia is the largest airline carrier in Saudi Arabia and is wholly owned by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. According to Lilium, the landmark deal is a firm order for 50 Lilium jets, with an option to purchase up to 50 more.The sales agreement follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Saudi Arabia’s national airline and Lilium in October 2022 to explore the feasibility of zero-emission aviation in the region.
Lilium claims the deal represents an important milestone for the industry as it is the largest commitment for eVTOLs by an airline operator. The agreement includes a “schedule of deposit and pre-delivery payments, timeline of future deliveries, guarantees on aircraft performance, and provisions on spare parts, maintenance, and repairs.” In addition, the parties intend to sign a comprehensive ‘Lilium Power On’ agreement for aircraft fleet maintenance and support services.
Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said: “The eVTOL jets are revolutionising guest transportation. Their unique vertical takeoff and landing capabilities open up entirely new routes. Imagine travelling up to 175 kilometres at speeds of 250 kilometres per hour, saving valuable time compared to traditional options. This technology also tackles traffic congestion head-on. Business travellers and exhibition attendees will benefit tremendously from the ease and speed of electric aircraft, allowing them to attend and participate in events seamlessly.”
The value of the order received by Lilium has not been revealed. However, it’s expected to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars, considering the company’s Pioneer aircraft costs $10 million. Saudia Group said on Thursday that it expects to receive the first jets in 2026. Operations will be managed and run by Saudia Private, a subsidiary of Saudia Group. Furthermore, Saudia Group also said it would provide strategic support in Lilium’s certification process with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Saudi Arabia’s aviation regulatory agency.
Designed as a replacement for traditional helicopters, the Lilium jet features an egg-shaped fuselage and is powered by 36 electric motors, six on each of the two front canards and twelve on each rear wing. The ducted propellers can tilt, providing upward lift during take-off and forward propulsion while flying.
The cabin has enough space to comfortably accommodate up to six passengers and one pilot. The eVTOL jets are intended to increase flight frequencies, reduce traffic congestion, and provide a convenient travel alternative within the Kingdom.
