The Lilium Jet eVTOL aircraft—which represents a mode of transportation widely billed as a force for democratizing air travel—might not seem like an obvious fit for NetJets' private aviation service. But recent discussions between the company that introduced the world to fractional ownership of aircraft and the eVTOL pioneer convinced Lilium to shift its business model from one entirely founded on rideshare shuttle flights booked on an app toward some more exclusive options.
Last week, NetJets agreed to add 150 Lilium Jets to its fleet of high-end business aircraft. Under a memorandum of understanding, the U.S.-based group has secured purchase rights for the all-electric model, which could be operated by NetJets and its affiliates. The aircraft is expected to enter service in 2024, offering a range of 155 miles at speeds of up to 174 mph.
On Tuesday, Lilium also announced that it will partner with FlightSafety International for pilot training. The company, which like NetJets is part of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway investment group, will provide courseware, mixed reality training devices, and crew training.
Lilium and NetJets expect to firm up the terms of their memorandum of understanding (MoU) by the end of this year, to more precisely specify how their partnership will work.
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