Collins Aerospace to build sidestick system for Lilium Jet

Lilium has teamed with Collins Aerospace to develop and build the Lilium Jet’s inceptors – the sidestick system used by the pilot to control the aircraft. 

The inceptors will integrate all conventional mechanical and electrical flight controls into two sidesticks. According to Lilium, the Collins system brings a new piloting philosophy for single pilot operations in the eVTOL realm. It is also being designed to save space and weight compared to today’s sidesticks.

Yves Yemsi, COO at Lilium, said: “Our partnership with Collins Aerospace allows us to reap the benefit of five decades of experience in flight deck controls. Our two companies’ collaborative development approach allows us to re-imagine the cockpit and pilot experience, and further strengthens our path towards certification and commercialisation.”

The collaboration with Collins continues Lilium’s strategy of teaming up with established tier one aerospace suppliers, it said. This helps to support certification and prepare for industrial ramp-up. As part of the agreement, Collins will certify the inceptors to commercial aviation standards.

Jean-François Chanut, vice president and general manager of Collins Aerospace Propeller Systems, said the firm’s experience innovating sidestick design is key when tackling the challenges of redefining the entire flight control philosophy for single-pilot aircraft. “This innovating and exciting partnership with Lilium is a first step in defining the right solutions towards more automated, sustainable and safe operations for the future of flight,” he said.