Lilium and Saudia announce binding order for at least 50 aircraft
Saudia and Lilium have signed a binding sales agreement for 50 Lilium Jets, with options for the purchase of 50 more.
The agreement marks the largest of its kind in the MENA region. It follows the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Saudia and Lilium signed in October 2022. Lilium also believes it is the largest reported firm order of eVTOL aircraft by an airline that plans to operate the aircraft.
The agreement includes a schedule of deposit and pre-delivery payments, timeline of future deliveries, guarantees on aircraft performance and provisions on spare parts, maintenance and repairs. In addition, the companies also plan to sign a “Lilium Power-On” agreement for aircraft fleet maintenance and support services.
Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of Saudia Group, said: “Saudia Group is proud to pioneer the MENA region as the first company to acquire all-electric eVTOL jets, which reflects our commitment to continuously reducing our carbon footprint and becoming an industry leader in regional electric aviation. We recognise the critical role that Lilium is positioned to play in enabling us to deliver a sustainable premium aviation experience and transport our guests even closer to their destination.”
The announcement sees Saudia continue its initiative to “bring the world to the Kingdom” by providing first and last leg connections into the airline’s regional hubs and new point-to-point city connections, such as Jeddah to Makkah, using eVTOLs.
The aircraft will also support Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, enable faster access to key sports and entertainment events in Riyadh and offer new options for exploring remote tourist destinations across the country.
Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium, said: “We are thrilled to be pioneering progress in the eVTOL industry as the eVTOL manufacturer with the largest reported firm purchase order from an international airline that plans to operate the aircraft. 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. Our partnership will combine Saudia Group’s significant market knowledge with our unique eVTOL technology to transform premium class air travel in the GCC region.”
Saudia expects to receive the first jets in 2026, for which operations will be managed and run by Saudia Private, a subsidiary of Saudia Group. The Lilium Jet will feature large, premium cabins with capacity for up to six passengers plus luggage.
Prior to commercialisation, Saudia will also provide strategic support in Lilium’s certification process with Saudi Arabia’s aviation regulatory agency.
