Aviation360 MEA

Saudi airline Saudia Group, on Thursday, has signed a binding sales agreement for 50 eVTOL jets with Germany-based air taxi developer Lilium, with options for the purchase of 50 more. The signature ceremony was held at Lilium’s HQ in Munich.

This sales agreement, which follows the Memorandum of Understanding between Saudia Group and Lilium signed in October 2022, marks the largest of its kind in the MENA region and represents an important industry milestone as the largest reported firm order of eVTOL aircraft by an airline that plans to operate the aircraft. 

It also signals a substantial commitment to electric aviation from a world-leading operator, as well as a clear preference towards the superior performance, economics, and passenger experience expected to be provided by the Lilium Jet.

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 parties intend to sign a comprehensive “Lilium POWER ON” agreement for aircraft fleet maintenance and support services.

“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,” H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group said at the signing ceremony.

The agreement amplifies Saudi Group’s commitment to the Saudi Vision 2030 and is the result of a collaborative effort over the past years between the two companies to bring eVTOL to the skies of Saudi Arabia. 

The group 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. It will deliver the Saudia premium experience that is deeply valued by the airline’s guests.

Revolutionising the transport sector

The eVTOL jets are revolutionizing guest transportation with their unique vertical take-off and landing capabilities, opening up entirely new routes. This technology will also aid in tackling traffic congestion head-on.

“Business travellers 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,” said Al-Omar. 

“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,” he added.

This purchase agreement marks the latest addition to Lilium’s extensive order pipeline that now consists of 106 firm orders and reservations, 76 options, and roughly 600 aircraft under MOU. Lilium is in advanced discussions with additional global carriers that are looking to reduce carbon emissions and electrify regional air travel.

“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,” said Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium.