MUNICH- Saudia Group, which owns Saudi Airlines (SV) and Lilium NV signed a historic sales agreement for 50 Lilium Jets on July 18, 2024. The deal includes options for 50 additional aircraft.
Fahd Al-Jarbou, CEO of Saudia Private, and Klaus Roewe, Lilium’s CEO, signed the contract at Lilium’s headquarters in Gauting, Germany.
Saudia Orders upto 100 Lilium Jets
This agreement follows the October 2022 Memorandum of Understanding between the two companies. It represents the largest eVTOL aircraft order by an airline in the MENA region. The deal signifies a major commitment to electric aviation from a leading operator.
The contract details include deposit and pre-delivery payment schedules, delivery timelines, aircraft performance guarantees, and provisions for spare parts, maintenance, and repairs. Both parties plan to sign a “Lilium POWER-ON” agreement for fleet maintenance and support services.
This partnership marks a significant step in the advancement of Regional Air Mobility. It demonstrates Saudia Group’s commitment to innovative, sustainable air travel solutions. The agreement also validates Lilium’s technology and business model in the competitive eVTOL market.
The collaboration between Saudia Group and Lilium could reshape regional air travel in Saudi Arabia and potentially influence global aviation trends towards more sustainable practices.
Vision 2030
With this deal, Saudia Group becomes the first company in the MENA region to acquire all-electric eVTOL jets. This move aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and demonstrates Saudia’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
The Lilium Jets will travel up to 175 kilometers at 250 kilometers per hour, significantly reducing travel times. They will connect regional hubs, create new point-to-point city routes, and cut regional travel times by up to 90%.
These jets will support Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, provide access to sports and entertainment events in Riyadh, and open up hard-to-reach tourist destinations. They will also benefit business travelers attending conferences and events.
Saudia Group expects to receive the first jets in 2026. Saudia Private, a subsidiary, will manage operations. Each Lilium Jet will feature premium cabins accommodating up to six passengers plus luggage.
Before commercialization, Saudia Group will assist Lilium in the certification process with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia.
This partnership aims to revolutionize regional air travel in Saudi Arabia, offering faster, more convenient, and sustainable transportation options. It represents a significant step in implementing advanced aviation technology to enhance connectivity and support Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification efforts.
CEO Remarks
H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group while signing the deal stated,
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 recognize 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. This agreement amplifies our commitment to the Saudi Vision 2030 and is the result of a collaborative effort over the past years between Lilium and Saudia Group to explore how we can best bring eVTOL to the skies of Saudi Arabia. We are looking forward to the journey ahead.”
H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group
The eVTOL jets are revolutionizing guest transportation. Their unique vertical take-off and landing capabilities open up entirely new routes. Imagine traveling up to 175 kilometers at speeds of 250 kilometers per hour, saving valuable time compared to traditional options. This technology also tackles traffic congestion head-on. Business travelers and exhibition attendees will benefit tremendously from the ease and speed of electric aircraft, allowing them to seamlessly attend and participate in events. These innovative vehicles will also be a game-changer for tourism, sports, and entertainment, offering a premium travel experience for these exciting destinations,” he added.
H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group
Lilium CEO Klaus Roewe highlights the partnership with Saudia as a significant milestone in the eVTOL industry. This agreement represents the largest reported firm purchase order from an international airline planning to operate eVTOL aircraft.
Lilium identifies the Middle East as a priority market, with Saudi Arabia offering substantial potential for electric, high-speed regional air mobility. The partnership combines Saudia Group’s market knowledge with Lilium’s eVTOL technology to transform premium air travel in the GCC region.
Lilium’s order pipeline now includes 106 firm orders and reservations, 76 options, and approximately 600 aircraft under MOU. This purchase agreement with Saudia Group strengthens Lilium’s position in the eVTOL market.
Lilium continues discussions with other global carriers interested in electrifying regional air travel and reducing carbon emissions. This trend indicates growing industry interest in sustainable aviation solutions.
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