Saudia signs agreement with Lilium for up to 100 eVTOL aircraft

This agreement builds on a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two companies signed in October 2022. The contract was signed at Lilium’s headquarters near Munich by Fahd Al-Jarbou, CEO of Saudia Private business aviation unit, and Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium.

The contract includes an undisclosed deposit amount from Saudia and pre-delivery payments according to an agreed schedule. It also covers spare parts and maintenance under Lilium’s Power-On program.

Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of the Saudia Group, stated that this investment is part of the airline's commitment to reducing 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 at speeds of up to 250 kilometers per hour, saving valuable time compared to traditional options. This also tackles traffic congestion head-on.”

Lilium reported having firm orders and reservations for 106 aircraft, along with options for another 76 units and MoUs covering an additional 600 units. "The Middle East is a priority for Lilium," said Roewe. "Saudi Arabia will be a very large and exciting market for electric, high-speed regional air mobility."