Lilium has received Design Organization Approval from EASA, a major milestone in its mission to develop a certified eVTOL jet.
The jet boasts unique features, including a winged body, three electric jet engines, and a range of up to 500 km at speeds of 300 km/h.
The company has secured significant orders and partnerships, indicating growing interest and potential for expansion in the eVTOL market.
Simple Flying has been keeping a close eye on the progress of the Lilium Jet over the years. Since its founding in 2015, the company has been making significant strides in its mission to introduce sustainable and high-speed regional air mobility to the world. Over the last month, the company has witnessed a series of milestones, including a major announcement this morning.
Plenty to shout about
Lilium today announced that it has received Design Organization Approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which confirms that the firm adheres to the strict safety and regulatory policies for the development of Part-21 commercial aircraft in the region. All in all, the approval means that Lilium is qualified to hold a type certificate in accordance with EASA’s SC-VTOL rules.
The German outfit would undoubtedly be proud of this award since it has a goal to develop the only eVTOL certified by EASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Even if it’s not the first to the pole, the aircraft has a plethora of features to separate itself from the eVTOL pack. After all, it’s a jet rather than being based on a helicopter like its counterparts.
Key features include:
A winged body with 12 flaps.
Three electric jet engines.
Ranges between 40 km (21.5 NM) and 200 km (108 NM) at launch.
A long-term range of up to 500 km (270 NM) at a speed of up to 300 km/h (187 mph).
The capacity for four to six passengers, depending on the configuration.
The cabin can be adapted for 6 m3 (210 ft3) cargo space.
Recent deals
Demonstrator tests have already been making good progress. As such, several companies have already expressed their interest in the type. This is a factor that has continued into the fall, with a notable order being placed this month.
Business aviation enterprise ArcosJet announced the purchase of 10 Lilium jets at the Dubai Airshow. These aircraft will be delivered between 2026 and 2027. The company joins the likes of Azul, NetJets, Honeywell, Expliseat, Aernnova, ABB, Bristow, Livent, and Ferrovial with signed agreements over the aircraft.
Heli-Eastern has also signed an agreement that could see the company order up to 100 jets to operate across China’s Greater Bay Area. Speaking of operations in this region, CITIC Offshore Helicopter announced a partnership woth Lilium last week to launch an eVTOL network here. The project also seeks expansion across China.
Looking forward
Lilium anticipates this action to continue heading into 2024. It has been busy with certification and service entry efforts.
