Lufthansa and Lilium sign deal to explore eVTOL operations in Europe

Lilium and Lufthansa Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore use cases for Lilium’s aircraft in Europe. 

The pair plan to look at opportunities for innovation in ground and flight operations, future aircraft maintenance, as well as crewing and flight training. Both companies also want to gauge the potential for collaboration with third parties like airports and regional partners. Examples could be the development of vertiports and airspace integration.

Dr. Detlef Kayser member of the Lufthansa Group’s executive board, responsible for Fleet & Technology, said: “Innovation is part of our DNA. The Lufthansa Group aspires to be a global leader in the integration of state-of-the-art products and processes. We want to develop aviation further and drive the transformation of the industry. This Memorandum of Understanding with Lilium will make an important contribution to this. Only with innovation, courage and determination can we, as an industry, make aviation more sustainable and master the challenges of the future.”

With a fleet of over 700 commercial aircraft, Lufthansa is working on a long-term strategy aimed at cost-efficiency and reduced emissions. The group’s latest aircraft acquisitions have up to 30% lower fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions compared with their predecessors.

Klaus Roewe CEO of Lilium said: “We are delighted that the Lufthansa Group has decided to cooperate with us to jointly advance in the future of flying. The Lufthansa Group has been at the forefront of some of Europe’s most important aviation initiatives, especially in the area of environmental sustainability. We are thrilled to explore opportunities on bringing eVTOL flights to Lufthansa Group customers.” 

Lilium announced this week it has begun production of its aircraft. According to Lilium’s internal projections, the European market is expected to account for a demand of around 9,200 eVTOL aircraft through 2035. Production of the Lilium Jet takes place at the firm’s 175,000 sqft facilities in Wessling, Germany. 

Yves Yemsi, chief operating officer of Lilium said: “I’d like to pay tribute not only to all Lilians, but also to the support and commitment of each of our suppliers and partners. The progress made in designing and building the fuselage, canard, and wings is a testament to the quality of collaboration with our aerostructures suppliers Aciturri and Aernnova.”