Lilium takes huge step closer to type-certification for its eVTOL jet

Lilium Air Mobility (Lilium), producer of the first-ever all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet has announced it has begun work on the assembly of the first of seven fuselages for the seven eVTOL jets that will be used to obtain Lilium Jet type-certification. It is anticipated that the first manned flight for the aircraft will take place in the latter part of 2024.

Yves Yemsi, COO of Lilium said: “We’re delighted to kick off assembly of the first Lilium Jet fuselage at Aciturri, bringing us one step closer to reshaping sustainable regional air mobility. We see this as further evidence that our approach of teaming with proven aerospace suppliers to bring our cutting-edge eVTOL aircraft to market is the optimal strategy as we advance along a path to certification and entry into service of the Lilium Jet.”

The fuselage is being built by Aciturri Aerostructures in Valladolid, Spain and will be transported to the Lilium site in Wessling, Germany in late 2023, with assembly to follow on shortly afterwards.

Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium, commented: “This phase is more than just a technical step – it’s a clear signal to all Lilium stakeholders of our commitment to making regional air mobility more efficient, enjoyable, and sustainable. As we assemble the fuselage, we are also crafting a transformative flying experience while upholding our promise of unparalleled efficiency, comfort, and safety.”

This latest phase of Lilium’s programme demonstrates the success of the strategic supplier partnership between Lilium and Aciturri, leveraging Aciturri’s proficiency in design and manufacturing of high-quality aerostructures. It follows a comprehensive industrial programme review conducted in late August 2023 in which leadership from Lilium and Aciturri reviewed and greenlit the initial industrial production components and process.

Maria Eugenia Clemente, CEO of Aciturri Aerostructures: “Aciturri is committed to playing a leading role in the transformation of sustainable regional air mobility, which supports Europe’s goal of achieving climate neutrality. We are fully aligned with Lilium’s vision and design, and we are delighted to have evolved our partnership to such a foundational stage towards the birth of the Lilium Jet.”