The German manufacturer says it is in “advanced discussions” with the French government to add a high-volume aircraft production facility in France, citing it as an attractive market for its flagship Lilium Jet. The company plans for the aircraft to enter service in 2026.

Lilium says it is evaluating several sites for a manufacturing hub in the country, including in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, which it describes as a “hotbed” for aerospace and battery production. The company estimates it will invest up to 400 million euros (about $432 million) into the site over several years, creating as many as 850 jobs.

Discussions on site selection—as well as potential French government subsidies and loan guarantees for the project—were announced Monday at the Choose France Summit in Versailles and are expected to conclude “in the coming weeks,” per Lilium.

The manufacturer says it picked France because of the country’s “well-established aerospace industry, expertise in electric mobility, highly skilled workforce, and supportive government environment.” It added in a post on social media platform X that it is already sourcing Lilium Jet components from French aerospace suppliers Saint-Gobain Aerospace, Michelin, and Expliseat.

Lilium in December began production of the first Lilium Jet prototypes at its final assembly line in Wessling, Germany. However, the company intends for the aircraft to be operated worldwide, including in the French Riviera in partnership with private jet operator GlobeAir.

Adding a manufacturing hub in France positions those operations closer to the company’s service areas, which could simplify its supply chain, for example. However, it says its French facilities are intended to serve the global market.

Lilium on Monday said it has more than 780 binding orders and memorandum of understanding (MOU) agreements from operators for its flagship aircraft, which it will debut publicly at the European Aviation Business Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva later this month.

The company’s most recent agreement includes 20 firm aircraft orders and options apiece from U.S. operator UrbanLink Air Mobility, which intends to fly the aircraft out of Lilium vertiports in South Florida.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium, French Government in ‘Advanced’ Talks for eVTOL Jet Manufacturing Hub appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The German manufacturer of the world’s first electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) jet on Monday announced a firm order for 20 aircraft from UrbanLink, a U.S. eVTOL operator formed in March by aviation entrepreneur Ed Wegel, the founder and CEO of charter airline GlobalX.

Notably, the agreement—which includes another 20 purchase options—sets scheduled predelivery payments between the partners. UrbanLink intends to operate the manufacturer’s flagship Lilium Jet out of planned vertiports in South Florida, with the goal of forming a regional air taxi network by 2026.

The initial network will span Miami, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Marco Island, Lilium says.

The collaboration represents a major boost to Lilium’s efforts to serve the Florida market, which has long been in its crosshairs. UrbanLink claims to be the first airline in the U.S. fully committed to integrating eVTOL aircraft into its fleet, giving the manufacturer a crucial operational partner it previously lacked.

“While many airlines have discussed the potential of operating eVTOL aircraft, none have made a definitive commitment,” said Wegel. “UrbanLink will be the first airline in the U.S. to integrate eVTOL aircraft into its fleet…After thorough evaluation of various manufacturers, we found the Lilium Jet to be the optimal choice for our needs, thanks to its superior cabin design, range, capacity, and cost-effectiveness.”

Fellow eVTOL air taxi manufacturer Archer Aviation has a similar relationship with United Airlines, which in 2022 paid $10 million out of its $1 billion deal for the purchase of up to 100 aircraft. Joby Aviation, which intends to operate its eVTOL itself, received a $60 million equity investment from partner Delta Air Lines, also in 2022.

“This is a huge milestone, not only for Lilium, but for the commercialization of eVTOLs in the U.S.,” said Sebastien Borel, chief commercial officer of Lilium. “We believe that this purchase of eVTOL aircraft is the first by a commercial operator that isn’t invested in the manufacturer that it is purchasing from. This is a sign that the market for eVTOL aircraft has matured, and there is growing demand for aircraft that can provide connections between, rather than just within, cities.”

Wegel—who led FAA certification for two U.S. Part 135 airlines and several U.S. Part 121 carriers, including Eastern Air Lines’ fleet of Boeing 737-800s in just eight months—founded UrbanLink as a standalone venture in March.

The industry veteran envisions Miami, Los Angeles, and San Juan, Puerto Rico, as the company’s early markets. It will then expand internationally beginning with the United Arab Emirates, which is rapidly becoming an eVTOL hot spot.

UrbanLink will provide the aircraft, pilots, and other systems needed to run the airline.

The firm picked the Lilium Jet for its fleet due in part to its quiet operation. The aircraft employs a unique fan-in-wing configuration, with 36 electric ducted fans embedded in its fixed wings. Compared to other eVTOL concepts, the design sacrifices efficiency in hover for a significant reduction in noise and improvement in cruise efficiency, where it will spend up to 95 percent of its time.

Since 2020, Lilium has worked with the city of Orlando and other stakeholders to build a regional air mobility (RAM) ecosystem for its eVTOL jet in Florida. Unlike Archer and Joby, which are focused on shorter urban air mobility (UAM) routes, Lilium expects its aircraft to fly between cities, cruising at 162 knots on trips spanning 25 to 125 sm (22 to 109 nm). That range is another factor that garnered UrbanLink’s interest.

Fractional aircraft ownership company NetJets in 2022 became a Lilium partner, signing a memorandum of understanding to purchase 150 aircraft which it will operate within the Florida network. Vertiports, under development at locations such as Orlando International Airport (KMCO), will function as hubs for the service.

Vertical flight services provider Bristow Group will provide maintenance services across the network, while FlightSafety International has agreed to train an initial group of Florida eVTOL pilots.

However, adding an airline partner makes the company’s plans seem much more feasible.

In addition, the German manufacturer has a partnership with Atlantic Aviation to electrify more than 100 FBO terminals nationwide. The sites—30 of which are within Lilium target markets such as Florida, Texas, and Southern California—will be transformed to accommodate its seven-seat eVTOL jet.

Lilium expects the first piloted Lilium Jet flight test to occur in late 2024, with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification in 2025. FAA certification, via the Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement between the two regulators, would follow shortly after. Lilium remains the only eVTOL manufacturer with certification bases on both sides of the Atlantic.

UrbanLink expects to begin the FAA certification process in late 2025, with commercial service launching by summer 2026.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium Receives Order for 20 eVTOL Jets, Forms Operational Partnership in U.S. appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The German firm announced the first public unveiling of its full-scale Lilium Jet will take place at the annual European Aviation Business Convention and Exhibition (EBACE), which runs from May 28-30 in Geneva.

The company says its showcase, which will also feature the aircraft’s charging infrastructure and a flight simulator for visitors to try out, will be its largest presence yet at the event. It expects to be one of the show’s largest exhibitors.

At EBACE 2023, Lilium debuted a new cabin design for its Pioneer Edition Jet: a four-passenger configuration of its flagship model that is on sale in the U.S. for a hefty $10 million.

“We are delighted to return to EBACE this year, a year that represents a major milestone for Lilium as we gear up for the first piloted flight of the Lilium Jet targeted for the end of the year,” said Sebastien Borel, chief commercial officer of Lilium. “Consequently, it is fitting that we are returning to EBACE in a very big way, with our largest presence at the show to date.”

Borel and Andreas Pfisterer, the manufacturer’s head of flight operations and crew training, each will participate in panels at the event.

Lilium at the end of 2023 began production on the first seven Lilium Jet models, which the company intends to deploy in for-credit testing with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Those evaluations will follow the aircraft’s first piloted flight. The move marked a key step toward type certification of the model, which Lilium expects to obtain by the end of 2025.

Though often lumped in with eVTOL air taxi manufacturers such as Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation, Lilium has a slightly different use case in mind for its aircraft: regional air mobility (RAM).

The Lilium Jet is expected to cruise at 162 knots on city-to-city trips spanning 25-125 sm (22-109 nm). While Archer’s Midnight and Joby’s air taxi are capable of flying those distances, the companies are more focused on urban air mobility (UAM) services within metro areas, such as New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles.

Accordingly, Lilium’s design employs a configuration seldom seen on eVTOL air taxis, with 36 electric ducted fans embedded in the aircraft’s wings. By contrast, Archer, Joby, and several others are building fixed-wing tiltrotor or tilt propeller aircraft in which the rotors and propellers provide both vertical lift and forward cruise.

Lilium says its design sacrifices some efficiency in hover in exchange for significantly greater efficiency in cruise, since the airframe is not bogged down by tilting rotors or propellers. EBACE 2024 in Switzerland will be one of the first times an aircraft with the unique fan-in-wing configuration is on display to the public.

While the event will take place in Europe, where Lilium is based, the manufacturer plans to sell aircraft to operators in the U.S. market as well.

Already, it has opened sales for Pioneer Edition Jets to individual U.S. buyers, while fractional aircraft ownership firm NetJets in 2022 signed a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of 150 of the company’s flagship aircraft.

In February, Lilium designated a planned 56,000-square-foot vertiport at Orlando International Airport (KMCO) as the hub for its operations in Florida, which is expected to be one of the company’s earliest launch markets.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium to Debut Full-Scale eVTOL Jet at EBACE appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Following the start of aircraft production in December, the company on Tuesday began building the aviation-grade battery packs that will power its flagship Lilium Jet: a seven-seat eVTOL designed for regional air mobility (RAM) services.

Each Jet will be fitted with 10 independent battery packs, intended to boost range. The packs are also redundant, allowing the aircraft to fly and land safely if one fails. According to Lilium, production follows extensive testing all the way down to the individual battery cell.

The first battery packs off the assembly line at the manufacturer’s purpose-built battery factory, just outside its headquarters in Munich, will be used to perform verification testing ahead of the Lilium Jet’s first piloted flight. That milestone is being targeted for late 2024.

“The start of production of the battery packs is a proud moment for Lilium,” said Yves Yemsi, chief operating officer of Lilium. “Battery technology is central to the goal of delivering sustainable regional air mobility, including overcoming the challenges of developing and industrializing a battery pack that will meet the stringent safety standards of aircraft certification.”

Lilium’s battery packs are composed of lithium-ion cells with silicon-dominant anodes. The company claims these enable greater energy, power, and fast-charging capabilities than graphite anode cells, which are much more common in batteries today. However, many automakers, including Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and General Motors, are eyeing transitions to silicon anodes, which are believed to provide a higher energy density than graphite.

The packs are designed to meet European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) safety standards around shock resistance, heat resistance, containment, and redundancy. According to Lilium, it has secured intellectual property rights for the technology.

The German manufacturer says its batteries are designed to support a higher power and energy density for regional—rather than urban—air mobility operations, with the implication being that they are more powerful than those of competitors focused on urban air mobility (UAM).

RAM and UAM are subsets of advanced air mobility (AAM). RAM seeks to connect cities within a region, while UAM focuses more on intracity operations. The Lilium Jet is expected to cruise at 162 knots on regional trips spanning 25 to 125 sm (22 to 109 nm).

Each Jet’s 10 battery packs will power electric jet engines produced by Honeywell and Japan’s Denso. Propulsion comes in the form of 36 electric ducted fans embedded in the aircraft’s fixed wings. The unique configuration sacrifices hover efficiency for improved cruise efficiency and lower noise.

Lilium began building its flagship aircraft in December with the delivery of seven fuselages to its manufacturing facility, ramping up production in February with the installation of a serial production line for the Jet’s propulsion systems.

These components and others will be assembled into seven aircraft, which the company intends to use for piloted flight testing and, later, for-credit evaluations with EASA. It hopes to achieve type certification in 2025 ahead of a planned commercial launch in 2026.

In February, Lilium designated Orlando International Airport (KMCO) as the hub for its U.S. operations in Florida.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium Begins Producing Battery Packs for Electric Jet appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Electron Aerospace, the maker of the 100 percent electric Electron 5, on Thursday announced an undisclosed but “significant” number of aircraft orders from business aviation provider Air2E and private air taxi operator Hopscotch Air. The companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) committing to explicit payment schedules.

Air2E operates primarily in Germany, not far from Electron’s headquarters in the Netherlands. Hopscotch is licensed to fly in the U.S. and Canada. According to Electron, the fresh orders bring the company’s sales pipeline to an estimated $213 million.

“Securing orders from two pioneers in the regional air mobility sector like Air2E and Hopscotch Air affirms the market fit of our Electron 5 aircraft,” said Marc-Henry de Jong, co-founder and chief commercial officer of Electron.

Electron’s flagship aircraft is the zero-emission Electron 5, designed for one pilot, four passengers, and their luggage. The firm anticipates first deliveries in 2028 following certification with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in 2027. Beyond passenger and cargo transport, Electron says the aircraft could be used for pilot training and medical evacuation.

Compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) aircraft, Electron 5’s twin-engine, battery-electric-drive system can slash operating costs by more than half, the company says. The propulsion system also limits noise to around 55 dB, quieter than a vacuum cleaner.

“The reduced operating costs of the Electron 5 will allow us to significantly broaden our customer base, providing more affordable and accessible air travel alternatives,” said Andrew Schmertz, CEO of Hopscotch.

Electron says its aircraft is optimized for “short intra-European hops.” With current battery technology, it has a maximum range of about 466 sm (405 nm) and top speed of 188 knots at 10,000 feet, making it ideal for regional flights, such as between New York City and Washington, D.C.

According to the company, aircraft with the same mission profile in the U.S. and EU typically have a range less than 311 sm (270 nm), more in line with Electron 5’s operating range of 310 sm.

An updated Electron 5 design, revealed in March, deploys some biomimicry and is inspired by the albatross, which is considered to be one of the most efficient flying animals on earth.

“Taking inspiration from the albatross, our Electron 5 features an aerodynamically efficient body, robust wings, and windows that mimic the bird’s vigilant eyes,” said Alexander Klatt, head of design at Electron.

One newly added feature is an easily accessible cargo door, which the company says is “unheard of” for an aircraft of Electron 5’s size. The cargo door allows the aircraft to accommodate up to four passengers or 1,100 pounds of cargo. In addition, the manufacturer claims Electron 5 has the largest windows in its class. These wrap around the aircraft to provide 180-degree views for the pilot and passengers.

Electron has stated Europe will serve as its primary market. So far, the firm has an agreement with the Netherlands’ Twente Airport (EHTW) to launch zero-emission flights in 2027. It claims it will be able to fly passengers from Twente to London, Paris, or Berlin within two hours.

Electron also has a strategic partnership with South Korea’s Mint Air, which placed an order for ten Electron 5 models and intends to become an operator and official reseller in the country.

With Hopscotch now getting in on the action, it appears North America will serve as another future market.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Electric Aircraft Manufacturer Electron Secures Orders From Air2E, Hopscotch appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The FBO network and aviation services provider on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Germany’s Lilium to electrify its network of more than 100 FBOs. The partners will transform existing U.S. airport infrastructure to accommodate the manufacturer’s flagship Lilium Jet, a seven-seat eVTOL design for regional air mobility (RAM) services.

Lilium intends to launch RAM operations worldwide, including in the U.S., as early as 2026.

“Atlantic’s extensive presence across major U.S. cities and expertise in ground infrastructure development and premier customer service will be invaluable in establishing a robust network that supports the Lilium Jet throughout the U.S.,” said Sebastien Borel, chief commercial officer of Lilium.

According to Lilium, Atlantic operates sites at more than 30 airport locations within its planned U.S. launch markets, which include Florida, Texas, Southern California, and the Northeast corridor. The German firm is the sole eVTOL manufacturer with certification bases from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and FAA, allowing it to fly on either side of the Atlantic.

The company’s flagship, seven-seat Jet is designed to fly routes between towns and inner cities, cruising at 162 knots on trips spanning 25 to 125 sm (22 to 109 nm). It began production of the first models in late 2023.

Together with Atlantic Aviation, the manufacturer hopes to plan a network of hubs that will support Lilium Jet operators. The partners will ensure current and future vertiports are compatible with the aircraft and give operators access to “strategic points” within Atlantic’s network.

Lilium and Atlantic will focus on infrastructure deployment and operations at existing and upcoming Atlantic sites, honing in on the passenger experience. Strategic planning will be molded around considerations such as aircraft flight paths, charging capabilities, passenger facilities, and operations forecasting.

“This collaboration underscores our firm conviction in the transformative potential of eVTOL technology in reshaping regional travel, and we are dedicated to furnishing the technology-agnostic infrastructure and assistance required to bring this vision to fruition,” said John Redcay, chief commercial and sustainability officer at Atlantic.

Atlantic in January also partnered with eVTOL air taxi manufacturers Archer Aviation, Joby Aviation, and Beta Technologies, with separate deals to electrify Atlantic terminals for Archer’s Midnight, Joby’s S4, Beta’s Alia, and other electric aircraft models.

Joby said its agreement will initially focus on FBOs in New York and Los Angeles. Archer too is eyeing those markets in addition to San Francisco and Miami, while Beta is targeting the East and Gulf Coasts. All three manufacturers have hinted that more sites are on the horizon.

Joby, however, diverges from Lilium and the rest of the pack when it comes to charging.

While Lilium, Archer, Beta, and a host of other eVTOL manufacturers back the General Aviation Manufacturers Association’s (GAMA) endorsement of the combined charging system (CCS)—a set of design standards also proposed for the electric ground vehicle industry—Joby has proposed its own standard, the global electric aviation charging system (GEACS). 

Both standards would accommodate any model of electric aircraft. Among the key differences between the two are that CCS is intended for both electric air and ground vehicles. Atlantic, Clay Lacy Aviation, and other FBO networks have said they intend to install both CCS and GEACS chargers, while others such as Signature Aviation have so far only committed to one.

Lilium last month partnered with electric charging infrastructure provider Star Charge, from which it placed a “first order” for 120 CCS-compatible chargers. The manufacturer expects these systems will substantially lower charging time, reducing turnaround time and maximizing hours in the sky.

Before charging the Lilium Jet, the systems will support the launch of Lilium’s Pioneer Edition model: the planned launch version of its flagship aircraft, with a $10 million price tag.

A total of 50 Pioneer Edition models will be sold to business and general aviation operators worldwide, intended for private, premium, and shuttle operations. Lilium says its go-to-market strategy of selling to the premium segment first will diversify its revenue stream.

The approach is predicated on vertiports and charging infrastructure being ready for the Lilium Jet’s intended launch in 2026—which is where partners such as Atlantic come in.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium Plans to Electrify More Than 100 Atlantic FBOs appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The German firm on Monday said it has begun installing a serial production line for the Jet’s electric propulsion units at its manufacturing facility in Wessling, Germany. The company expects the first prototype propulsion systems—which will support for-credit type certification testing with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)—to roll off its production line in the second quarter of 2024.

The production of electric propulsion systems for Lilium’s flagship Jet marks another key milestone in the commercialization of the aircraft, which the company began building in December. It hopes to achieve type certification in 2025 ahead of a global launch in 2026.

Lilium’s propulsion assembly line was designed in partnership with automation and robotics supplier Schnaithmann Maschinenbau GmbH, with which the manufacturer has worked for years to develop production plans. Schnaithmann will also provide workflow design, jogs, and tools for Lilium’s aerostructures assembly and final assembly line.

“The electric jet engine is a unique, core Lilium technology, critical for aircraft performance and for which we have secured not only a team of highly qualified system suppliers but also important intellectual property,” said Jan Nowacki, senior vice president of manufacturing for Lilium. “With the support of Schnaithmann, we look forward to implementing state-of-the-art manufacturing solutions capable of being scaled up and replicated for high-volume production.”

Lilium and Schnaithmann developed initial production plans several years ago in anticipation of this week’s announcement. The manufacturer’s aerostructures assembly line—located in the same building as the newly announced propulsion system assembly line—already uses Schnaithmann equipment to handle the Jet’s wings and canards.

The Wessling site also comprises a testing and manufacturing center, propulsion and aerostructures facility, final assembly building, and battery assembly building and logistics hub.

“With nearly 40 years of experience in supplying automation technology to global industries, we are proud to participate in the industrialization of the Lilium Jet,” said Gerd Maier, member of the Schnaithmann management board. “The eVTOL industry has the potential to change aviation in a positive, sustainable way, and we are delighted to be able to play a key role in helping Lilium scale up towards high-volume production.”

Lilium delivered the first of seven Jet fuselages to Wessling in December. The company will manufacture seven aircraft to use for EASA type certification validation, which it expects will begin late this year.

The manufacturer’s all-electric seven-seater is expected to fly passengers between towns and inner cities, cruising at 162 knots on trips spanning 25 to 125 sm (22 to 109 nm). The firm said the aircraft’s propulsion unit will be key in providing performance, unit economics, and comfort for regional air mobility (RAM) services.

RAM is a subset of advanced air mobility (AAM) that involves connecting cities across a broader region, as Lilium plans to do. It contrasts with the urban air mobility (UAM) approach adopted by many competitors, which intend to concentrate flights within a single city or metropolitan area, such as New York or Los Angeles.

The Lilium Jet propulsion unit consists of electric jet engines (or e-motors) integrated into a propulsion mounting system, which forms the rear part of the aircraft’s wings and front aerofoils. The company said the system will improve payload and aerodynamic efficiency, reduce noise, and provide thrust vector control to maneuver the Jet through all phases of flight.

Several components for the propulsion unit are provided by suppliers such as Honeywell, which is working with partners Denso, Aeronamic, and SKF to deliver e-motors, fans, and electric motor bearings, respectively.

The system powers 36 electric ducted fans embedded in the Jet’s wings. The unique architecture differs from competitors such as Joby Aviation or Archer Aviation, which are using tilt rotors that reorient themselves during the transition between vertical and forward flight.

In 2023, Lilium assembled the first complete electric engine for the Jet on a pre-series line. The engine is designed to deliver what the manufacturer claims is an industry-leading power density of over 100 kilowatts, despite the system weighing just less than 9 pounds.

Crewed flights of the Lilium Jet are expected to begin later this year as the company eyes for-credit testing with EASA. But Lilium is also the only eVTOL manufacturer with certification bases from both EASA and the FAA.

Earlier this month, the company designated Orlando International Airport (KMCO) as a key hub for its RAM service in Florida, which it announced in 2020. Fractional aircraft ownership company NetJets agreed tentatively to purchase 150 Lilium Jets and operate them across the Florida network, which will be supported with maintenance services from Bristow Group. FlightSafety International has agreed to train an initial cohort of Florida eVTOL pilots.

Lilium further announced support for Florida Legislature House Bill 981, which would designate Orlando International Airport as Florida’s official AAM test site. The legislation would also create a pathway for safe, efficient vertiport permitting in the state.

Last week, Lilium placed an order for 120 Star Charge electric aircraft charging systems, intended to juice up its ground and flight test aircraft. The manufacturer will also deliver chargers to customers investing in vertiports, further supporting its RAM ecosystem.

In addition, Lilium last week partnered with private and commercial operator PhilJets—which agreed to purchase 10 aircraft—to explore RAM networks in the Philippines, Cambodia, and across Southeast Asia.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium Prepares to Ramp Up Production of Electric Jet Propulsion Units appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

At the Singapore Airshow, the German firm announced a partnership with electric charging infrastructure provider Star Charge to develop the charging systems for its ground and flight testing aircraft, the first of which are now in production. The manufacturer also launched what it said is the first eVTOL customer service business, which will provide battery management, maintenance, flight operations, training, and digital solutions to customers.

Lilium placed a “first order”—implying, perhaps, that another is on the horizon—for 120 Star Charge systems, which will support the company’s testing, maintenance, and delivery center activities later this year. It will also deliver chargers to customers investing in vertiports, which will serve as hubs for future operations.

The systems are billed as high-performance, with extra-long, liquid-cooled cables designed to significantly reduce charge time. They are suitable for a variety of different landing sites, Lilium said.

Crucially, Star Charge systems are also fully compatible with the Combined Charging System (CCS), which has been proposed as the universal standard for electric aircraft charging. CCS chargers are designed to accommodate the Lilium Jet and all other CCS-compatible air and ground vehicles.

Lilium and several other manufacturers—including Archer Aviation, Beta Technologies, Volocopter, Overair, Boeing’s Wisk Aero, and Embraer’s Eve Air Mobility—backed the General Aviation Manufacturers Association’s (GAMA) endorsement of CCS in September.

“We are grateful to have received the first order of CCS chargers by a leading eVTOL manufacturer and look forward to commencing deliveries this year,” said Ji Cheng, CEO of Star Charge Europe.

Lilium expects the new systems will substantially lower charging time compared to chargers without liquid-cooled cables, reducing turnaround time and maximizing hours in the sky.

Joby Aviation, which has proposed its own charging standard—the global electric aviation charging system (GEACS)—said its system will include a coolant mechanism that keeps aircraft batteries at the ideal temperature during charging.

The company has positioned GEACS as a substitute for the CCS, but both standards propose universal charging systems for electric aircraft.

“Our partnership with Star Charge will support the Lilium Jet´s development and certification along with our customers’ ground infrastructure development,”  said Sebastien Borel, chief commercial officer of Lilium. “Its high-performance and liquid-cooled charging cable is a unique feature, and Star Charge´s proven expertise in charging infrastructure is crucial for regional air mobility.”

Regional air mobility (RAM) is a subset of the broader advanced air mobility (AAM) industry focused on connecting cities within a region, as Lilium intends to do. RAM contrasts with the urban air mobility (UAM) model being pursued by other eVTOL manufacturers, which are planning operations within a single city or metropolitan area.

Lilium’s electric seven-seat Jet is expected to fly RAM routes between towns and inner cities, cruising at 162 knots on trips spanning 25 to 125 sm (22 to 109 nm). To support those operations, the company is launching Power-On, a new business unit that will offer a full portfolio of aircraft manufacturer services. 

Power-On will support customers with training services, maintenance operations, flight operations support, ground service equipment, digital solutions, and management and distribution of materials and batteries.

Dominique Decard, vice president of flight operations and customer service for Lilium, has been appointed to lead the new unit, which falls under the company’s aftermarket services business. Decard is an engineer and 20-year veteran of the airline industry who joined Lilium in 2018.

The manufacturer estimated that the services market for the Lilium Jet will hit $5 billion by 2035, with Power-On being a key catalyst.

“As we officially launch Lilium Power-On, our priority will be to test the full range of products and services to support our future operators during [the] Lilium flight testing campaign and continue to contract and onboard the best partners for our working ecosystem,” said Decard. “The services revenue and contribution margins will play a crucial role in Lilium’s profitability.”

Already, Lilium has several partnerships in place for its aftermarket services business. These include flight training agreements with Lufthansa Aviation Training and FlightSafety International to prepare the initial cohort of Jet pilots. Most recently, it agreed a global parts management and distribution partnership with U.K.-based AJW Group.

“As RAM accelerates, our partners can rely on Lilium to provide a comprehensive aircraft manufacturer service organization,” said Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium. “The team is focused on enabling seamless, efficient services and support through premium aftermarket products and world-class partners.”

In December, Lilium began production of seven Lilium Jets, which the manufacturer will use in flight testing with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The milestone followed EASA Design Organization Approval, which is essentially the regulator’s blessing that Lilium adheres to the required standards for designing novel aircraft.

The company plans for its flagship model to enter commercial service in 2026. As its global fleet expands, the aftermarket services business is expected to generate significant recurring revenue.

Earlier this month, Lilium designated Orlando International Airport (KMCO) as the hub for its U.S. operations in Florida. Its agreement with FlightSafety International will cover pilot training for those services, while helicopter operator Bristow Group will provide Part 145 maintenance support. Fractional jet ownership company NetJets has agreed to purchase 150 Lilium Jets and operate the service.

This week, the manufacturer announced another partnership with the Philippines’ PhilJets, which intends to purchase and operate 10 Jets. Its largest agreement outside the U.S. is with Azul Brazilian Airlines: a $1 billion deal for the purchase and operation of 220 aircraft.

Lilium also has 100 aircraft orders apiece from Saudi Arabia national airline Saudia and Chinese helicopter operator Heli-Eastern. It intends to establish a footprint in both countries. Meanwhile, the firm is exploring a strategic partnership with Lufthansa to scale eVTOL operations across Europe.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium Signs eVTOL Jet Charging Deal, Launches Customer Service Business appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The company on Monday announced a partnership with the Philippines’ PhilJets to bring its flagship Jet and high-speed regional air mobility (RAM) services to the region, starting with the Philippines.

PhilJets operates private and commercial flights with a fleet comprising 15 private jets and helicopters, with plans to expand it in the next three years. It also has a maintenance services affiliate that supports more than 100 helicopters.

Lilium intends to launch RAM—a subset of advanced air mobility (AAM) that primarily connects cities within a region—across the continent and worldwide. Its road map contrasts with the urban air mobility (UAM) model pursued by competitors such as Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation, which plan to serve individual cities or metro areas.

The collaboration between Lilium and PhilJets follows the manufacturer’s agreement in June to deliver 100 aircraft to Chinese air transport operator Heli-Eastern.

“Our strategic partnership with PhilJets will expand our footprint even further in Asia, bringing the Lilium Jet to Southeast Asia,” said Sebastien Borel, chief commercial officer of Lilium. “The Philippines is well suited for eVTOLs to effectively connect thousands of islands together through sustainable and high-speed air mobility. Asia is a key market for Lilium, and with the unique topographical challenges this region presents, the innovative design of the Lilium Jet is uniquely suited to address them.”

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed this week at the Singapore Airshow signals PhilJets’ intent to purchase and operate 10 Lilium Jets.

The MOU also calls for a future strategic collaboration to build an eVTOL network across the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations, including Cambodia. The partners will leverage PhilJets’ expertise in the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) market to scale up.

“With its growing economy, geography and important tourism industry, the Philippines is a great match to the Lilium Jet´s capabilities,” said Thierry Tea, chairman of PhilJets. “Innovation in aviation is gaining traction among regulators, urban planners, and industry leaders of worldwide economies. Providing efficient connectivity to customers while reducing carbon emissions is a major focus for air transport operators such as PhilJets.”

Lilium and PhilJets will jointly define routes, city pairs, and passenger demand for on-demand RAM services in Southeast Asia. They will also identify potential sites, requirements, and collaborators for landing infrastructure in the region, such as the selection of vertiport partners. Further, the partners will share vertiport specifications, and Lilium will provide access to its existing network of charging hardware providers.

“As a country with more than 7,500 islands, Lilium’s approach for regional air mobility is a perfect fit for eVTOL service in the Philippines and showcases the broader opportunities for island nations across the globe,” the manufacturer said in a news release.

In the Philippine capital, the local San Miguel Corporation is building the New Manila International Airport, expected to open in 2027. The project is one of many in the region that aims to embrace new forms of aviation.

For example, in Cambodia, the partners’ other intended launch market, the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC Group) is building the Techo Takhmao International Airport to replace Phnom Penh International Airport (VDPP) in 2025.

To reduce carbon emissions, both initiatives are exploring charging stations, flight routes, and other considerations for flying taxis and electric jets.

Lilium’s collaboration with PhilJets follows the start of production of seven type-conforming Lilium Jet prototypes, which the manufacturer will deploy for European Union Aviation Safety Agency flight testing. Crewed flights are expected to begin this year, with certification via EASA intended for 2026.

The all-electric, seven-seat Jet is designed to provide low-noise, zero-emission flights in densely populated areas. It will primarily fly RAM routes between towns and inner cities, cruising at 162 knots on trips spanning 25 to 125 sm (22 to 109 nm). Unlike the tiltrotor designs of competitors, the aircraft has no moving parts: its 36 electric ducted fans support vertical takeoff and landing, with fixed wings for cruise.

Lilium is the only commercial eVTOL manufacturer with certification bases from both EASA and the FAA. It plans to leverage the Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement between the two agencies to accelerate commercialization on the U.S. side.

In partnership with Houston-based EMCJet, a full-service aircraft brokerage and management firm, Lilium will deliver five Pioneer Edition Jets to private customers in the U.S., billed at $10 million per aircraft. The Pioneer Edition—the four-seat planned launch edition of the full-scale Jet—is aimed at wealthy GA and business aviation operators and will be the first aircraft of its kind available for private sale in the U.S., Lilium said. A total of 50 are expected to be delivered globally.

After selling the Pioneer Edition, the manufacturer will roll out its flagship, seven-seat model worldwide. Orlando International Airport (KMCO) is expected to serve as an initial hub for U.S. operations.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Lilium Partners with PhilJets for Electric Jets in Philippines, Southeast Asia appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

A bilateral agreement between the two firms announced Thursday seeks to bring Electra’s eSTOL to market by leveraging Surf Air’s on-demand air mobility platform and Aircraft-as-a-Service (ACaaS) leasing program for operators. Surf Air also secured preferred delivery positions for 90 Electra aircraft.

The manufacturer’s eSTOL design uses a distinctive blown-lift propulsion system. According to Electra, this allows the aircraft to take off at “neighborhood driving speeds,” reducing its runway requirement to just 150 feet.

The unique ability will open direct air travel beyond large airports to include small regional airfields and even advanced air mobility (AAM) infrastructure such as vertiports, the company said. The goal is to serve more regional transportation customers than private aviation does currently.

The eSTOL further stands out for its ability to recharge during flight, using a small turbogenerator running on hybrid-electric power to juice up its batteries. The use of hybrid-electric fuel also reduces emissions (by 30 percent) and noise (75 dBA at 300 feet, equivalent to a vacuum cleaner) below those of traditional airplane or rotorcraft, while improving range and payload, Electra said.

“Electra stands out as one of the early market leaders in regional air mobility [RAM], and we’re excited to bring them onto our platform,” said Stan Little, CEO of Surf Air. “Their innovations around hybrid-electric, short takeoff and landing aircraft—which can essentially take off and land on a football field-sized space—will unlock tremendous opportunities within the changing landscape of regional air mobility.”

Electra’s nine-seat design is the third green vehicle planned for Surf Air’s platform. It will join the company’s electrified Cessna 208B Grand Caravan—retrofit with its proprietary powertrain system—and Regent Craft’s electric seaglider.

Surf Air hopes to introduce “affordable, sustainable, and easily accessible” trips across its national flight network, which includes Southern Airways Express and Mokulele Airlines. Together with Electra, it will explore fleetwide data analytics services, create routes for the eSTOL within its network, provide real-time aircraft information, and develop predictive analytics systems. That last component, Electra said, is expected to reduce operating costs and streamline operations.

“As the country’s largest commuter airline, Surf Air is at the forefront of addressing the growing demand for cleaner, more affordable, and convenient travel options,” said John Langford, founder and CEO of Electra. “Electra is pleased to partner with Surf Air in spearheading the decarbonization of regional business aviation through the integration of our eSTOL aircraft into their fleet.”

Electra and Surf Air will further develop a leasing agreement, which would make the latter the preferred lessor and provider of Electra eSTOL aircraft to Surf Air customers. 

Surf Air already has a leasing program in place called Aircraft-as-a-Service, or ACaaS. But according to the company, regional Part 135 operators lack the access to aircraft funding options and software services that large commercial air carriers enjoy. ACaaS attempts to solve this problem by providing financing and software tools, lowering barriers to entry for smaller operators. 

Through ACaaS, smaller providers will soon get the opportunity to expand their regional transport networks with eSTOL aircraft.

“With billions of dollars being invested into the regional and advanced air mobility space, it’s becoming increasingly important for a solution that can on-ramp new technologies and get them into the hands of operators as quickly and safely as possible,” said Jamie Strecker, vice president of business development for Surf Air. “Through our air mobility platform and our ACaaS program, we believe we can accelerate Electra’s eSTOL aircraft time to market.”

Simultaneously, Surf Air continues to develop electrified powertrain technology for the Cessna Grand Caravan through an exclusive relationship with Textron Aviation. It has agreed to purchase as many as 170 Cessna models from the manufacturer.

The company intends to use its on-demand platform to bring the electrified Caravan to market on a global scale. It said the introduction of the hybrid-electric model will demonstrate what its technology could do for other manufacturers.

Surf Air also sells its proprietary electric powertrains to operators. Its most recent electrification deal came from Kenyan operators Safarilink and Yellow Wings last month.

Electra, meanwhile, last month surpassed 2,000 preorder sales for its flagship model following a massive deal with regional air carrier JSX, as well as a few smaller agreements. In November, the company completed what it said was the  “world’s first” flight of a hybrid eSTOL design, using its EL-2 Goldfinch demonstrator. The jaunt lasted 23 minutes, reached 3,200 feet in altitude, and covered approximately 30 miles.

Like this story? We think you’ll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.

The post Electra.aero and Surf Air Mobility Will Operate and Lease Hybrid-Electric Aircraft appeared first on FLYING Magazine.