Lilium is displaying its Jet eVTOL for the first time in the USA and is to partner with Houston, Texas-based business aviation services provider Galaxy FBO on infrastructure for the all-electric aircraft.
The full-scale model of the Jet, which was first revealed at the EBACE business aviation event earlier this year, is being displayed by Galaxy FBO at Houston Hobby Airport, Texas.
The Lilium Jet is being developed and manufactured in Munich, Germany, and will be able to carry five passengers up to 180km (110 miles), with a cruise speed of 280km/h (175mph) at altitudes of up to 10,000ft.
The first manned test flight of the Jet was expected to happen before the end of this year but has now slipped to “early 2025” according to Lilium. Type Certification with EASA is earmarked for next year.
Lilium is targeting regional aviation markets with the Jet. The company is developing a novel ducted electric fan propulsion system for the aircraft that uses 36 motors and fans integrated into its wings.
Matthew Broffman, Lilium’s vice president of commercial, Americas said, “Lilium is serious about expanding in the US and is actively progressing towards FAA validation. As part of our commitment to working with communities across the US and expanding our customer base, we’re excited to showcase our aircraft for the first time in Houston.”
Galaxy FBO has a presence at Houston Hobby, Conroe North Houston Regional Airport, and Woodlands Heliport in Houston and is partnering with Lilium to ensure accessibility at these airports for the Jet.
Jeremy Gee, CEO of Galaxy FBO said, “We are excited to transform Galaxy FBO into a hub for eVTOL innovation. As the future of electric aviation takes flight, this marks a significant step in making Houston a leader in sustainable and efficient transportation solutions.”
Houston-based aircraft brokerage Emcjet expects to be amongst the first customers to receive deliveries of the Jet in 2026. Memo Montemayor, founder and CEO of Emcjet said, “Our clients want to own the future of aviation and with our partnership with Lilium they can do just that.”
The Lilium Jet will be displayed at the 2024 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas next month.
Learn more about the Lilium Jet’s technology and its progression through testing and certification with this exclusive interview with chief technology officer Stephen Vellacott.
