Saudia Group, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has signed a landmark agreement with Lilium N.V. (NASDAQ: LILM), a leading electric aircraft manufacturer. This binding sales agreement includes the purchase of 50 Lilium Jets with options for an additional 50, making it the largest eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft deal in the MENA region.
The signing ceremony, held at Lilium’s headquarters in Munich, was attended by Fahd Al-Jarbou, CEO of Saudia Private, and Lilium’s CEO Klaus Roewe. Distinguished guests included H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, Michael Kindsgrab, the German Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and Lilium Chairman Tom Enders. This agreement builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2022, highlighting a significant commitment to electric aviation from one of the world’s leading operators.
Pioneering sustainable aviation
H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, stated: “Saudia Group is proud to pioneer the MENA region as the first company to acquire all-electric eVTOL jets. This move reflects our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and leading in regional electric aviation. Lilium’s technology will enable us to deliver a sustainable, premium aviation experience and transport our guests closer to their destinations.”
He added: “The eVTOL jets will revolutionise guest transportation. Their vertical take-off and landing capabilities open up new routes, allowing travel up to 175 kilometres at speeds of 250 kilometres per hour, saving valuable time. This technology also addresses traffic congestion, offering tremendous benefits for business travellers, exhibition attendees, and tourists. These innovative jets will transform travel to key sports and entertainment events, providing a premium experience for our guests.”
Advancing Vision 2030 and enhancing connectivity
This initiative supports Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing connectivity and offering seamless first and last-leg connections to Saudia Group’s regional hubs.
Routes will include:
- Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimage: Connecting Jeddah and Makkah to facilitate pilgrim travel.
- Sports and Entertainment: Easily transporting guests to key sports and entertainment events in Riyadh.
- Tourist Destinations: Offering guests the opportunity to explore various tourist attractions in Jeddah and Riyadh.
- Business and Exhibitions Sector: Facilitating travel for guests to visit the Kingdom for conferences, forums, exhibitions, and other events.
The eVTOL jets provide 90% reduction in travel times, which will result in increasing flight frequencies, while simultaneously decreasing traffic congestion. The jets will also provide a fast and convenient alternative for accessing tourism destinations that traditionally require extended travel times within the Kingdom.
Saudia Group expects to receive the first jets in 2026, with operations managed by Saudia Private. The Lilium Jet will feature large, premium cabins accommodating up to six passengers plus luggage, ensuring a luxurious travel experience.
Strategic support and future prospects
Before commercialisation, Saudia Group will assist in Lilium’s certification process with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Saudi Arabia’s aviation regulatory agency.
Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium, commented: “We are proud of our partnership with Saudia, a market-leading airline. This agreement marks the largest firm purchase order from an international airline for eVTOL aircraft. The Middle East, and particularly Saudi Arabia, is a priority market for Lilium. Our partnership will combine Saudia Group’s market knowledge with our eVTOL technology to transform premium air travel in the GCC region.”
This agreement with Saudia Group adds to Lilium’s growing order pipeline, which now includes 106 firm orders and reservations, 76 options, and approximately 600 aircraft under MOU. Lilium is also in advanced discussions with other global carriers aiming to reduce carbon emissions and electrify regional air travel.
This historic deal not only marks a significant step for Saudia Group in enhancing its fleet with sustainable technology but also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s leadership in innovative air mobility solutions, in line with its Vision 2030 goals.
…
Photos: Lilium
…
Read also: Skyward Revolution: Elevating Urban Mobility
