Saudia Group Takes to the Skies with Landmark eVTOL Jet Deal

Munich : The Saudia Group today signed a deal to purchase 100 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jets with the German company Lilium, a leading electric aircraft manufacturer and pioneer in Regional Air Mobility (RAM). The agreement includes 50 confirmed aircraft and 50 optional aircraft.

This deal, which will make the Saudia Group the first aviation company in the Middle East and North Africa region to purchase 100 eVTOL jets from Lilium, is an extension of the memorandum of understanding signed between the Saudia Group and Lilium in October 2022 during the Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh.

According to the deal, the Saudia Group is scheduled to receive its first electric aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2026, coinciding with the launch of eVTOL aircraft flights by the Saudi Private Aviation Company.

The electric aircraft included in the deal are among the first fully eVTOL, where these aircraft can take off and land vertically, eliminating the need for traditional airports. These aircraft can cover a distance of up to 175 kilometers at a speed of up to 250 kilometers per hour, offering significant time savings for individual travelers compared to other options and accommodating six passengers.

Through this deal, the Saudia Group continues to pursue its ambitious goals of connecting the world to the Kingdom and offering various benefits such as linking multiple destinations via these advanced electric aircraft and supporting them with air routes among the main airports where the group operates.

This deal will contribute to providing more flights and reducing travel time by up to 90%, including to tourist destinations that typically require long travel times. It also offers an effective solution for transportation in congested areas, reducing traffic and saving time. Additionally, it expands the range of premium services for VIP guests, providing a seamless and luxurious travel experience, which will also enhance tourism and business in the Kingdom.

The Saudia Group's agreement with Lilium aligns with the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. The deal will help boost the tourism, entertainment, and sports sectors, facilitate the transport of guests from around the world, and support the goal of transporting 330 million passengers and 150 million visits. Moreover, it will provide easy movement for pilgrims during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, aligning with the target of receiving 30 million Umrah performers.