Saudia pledges to purchase 100...

The airline intends to launch electric point-to-point connections for business class passengers

Saudia and Lilium, the developer of the first all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet, have announced a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the proposed development and operation by Saudia of an eVTOL network across Saudi Arabia.

The proposed arrangement will make Saudi Arabia’s national flag carrier the first airline in the MENA region to purchase 100 Lilium Jets. With zero operating emissions, the Lilium Jet will enable sustainable and time-saving travel.

Saudia intends to launch a state-of-the-art service with new electric point-to-point connections as well as seamless feeder connections to Saudia’s hubs for business class guests.

Lilium Jet’s flexible cabin architecture will enable a range of spacious interior configurations that are suited to the needs of the premium market, which Lilium believes can help drive the early adoption of eVTOL aircraft required to scale.

Commenting on the announcement Saudia chief executive officer Ibrahim S Koshy said: “Saudia, building on its commitment to be an industry-leading airline committed to sustainability, consider our eVTOL network project with Lilium to be an undertaking of great significance for the Kingdom’s aviation industry and will contribute effectively to spurring sustainable tourism in Saudi using zero-emission aviation. Saudia intends to meet a growing demand for regional air mobility and offer our valued guests a superior on-board experience. The potential for such an airborne transit network is limitless.”

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Lilium vice chairman Alexander Asseily added: “We are thrilled to work with innovative partners for whom sustainability is a priority. This partnership with Saudia, our first in the Middle East, is an exciting development for Lilium. We look forward to working with Saudia to deploy an eVTOL network across Saudi Arabia.”

The agreement between Saudia and Lilium is subject to the parties completing a feasibility assessment and agreeing to commercial terms.

For more information, visit www.saudia.com