Saudia has signed what Lilium described as a binding sales agreement for 50 of its six-passenger eVTOL aircraft. The agreement announced on July 18 also covers options for another 50 of the Lilium Jet, for which the German manufacturer intends to start deliveries in 2026.
The Saudi Arabian airline has agreed to provide support for Lilium’s work to secure type certification with the country’s General Authority of Civil Aviation. The initial certification of the Lilium Jet will be through Europe’s EASA air safety agency.
According to Saudia, it plans to operate the all-electric aircraft on regional point-to-point air services and also into its hub airports. It aims to deploy Lilium Jets to carry pilgrims visiting for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, and also for tourist flights associated with sporting and entertainment events, operating on routes of up to 175 km (95 nm).
The deal builds on the earlier memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two companies signed back in October 2022. It was signed at Lilium’s headquarters near Munich by Fahd Al-Jarbou, CEO of the airline’s Saudia Private business aviation unit, and the manufacturer’s CEO, Klaus Roewe.
The contract calls for Saudia to give Lilium an undisclosed deposit amount and make pre-delivery payments over an agreed schedule. It also includes arrangements for spare parts and maintenance under Lilium’s Power-On program.
According to Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of the Saudia Group, its investment in eVTOL aircraft is part of the airline’s commitment to reduce its carbon footprint under the Saudi Vision 2030 program. “Their unique vertical takeoff and landing capabilities open up entirely new routes,” he commented. “Imagine traveling up to 175 kilometers and speeds of up to 250 kilometers per hour, saving valuable time compared to traditional options. This also tackles traffic congestion head-on.”
Lilium said that it now holds firm orders and reservations for 106 aircraft, as well as 76 options and another 600 units under MoUs. “The Middle East is a priority for Lilium, and Saudi Arabia will be a very large and exciting market for electric, high-speed regional air mobility,” said Roewe.