Lilium Jet eVTOL’s Significant Milestones and Future Plans
Lilium, a pioneer in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully powering on its first in-production Lilium Jet, known as MSN 1. This event marks a crucial step in the aircraft’s development, ensuring that all systems are built and functioning correctly according to Lilium’s rigorous design specifications. The ground tests conducted with MSN 1 will pave the way for the first piloted flight scheduled with MSN 2 in early 2025, which is presently in the final stages of assembly.
Previously, Lilium conducted test flights with earlier demonstrators, such as Phoenix 3 in 2022. Unlike these earlier models, the latest Lilium Jets are fully functional and built to scale, destined for use in the type certification program. The successful power-on involved applying 900 volts to the aircraft’s electrical and avionics systems, encompassing crucial components like the cockpit display, flight controls, and communication, navigation, and surveillance systems.
Stephen Vellacott, Lilium’s Chief Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of this step in the manufacturing process. According to Vellacott, ‘Power-on is an essential quality gate in the production process of any commercial aircraft. Our adherence to documented processes and established aerospace procedures guarantees the highest standards of safety and quality in our aircraft production.’
Following MSN 1, which serves as an Ironbird to prove safety and compliance with airworthiness requirements, MSN 2 will carry the first pilot. Additionally, the production of MSN 3’s fuselage is already underway. Lilium plans to utilize a fleet of six test aircraft to achieve type-certification and prepare for commercial service, targeted to commence in 2026.
In August 2024, Lilium successfully completed the first phase of electrical integration testing at its dedicated electrical power system lab (EPSL). Here, a test rig replicates the Lilium Jet’s entire powertrain, from the battery pack to the engine, in a controlled setting, allowing for the thorough testing of high voltage distribution, low voltage conversion, and other critical functionalities.
The Lilium Jet recently made its U.S. debut at Galaxy FBO’s hangar at Houston William P. Hobby Airport. This event marked a significant step in introducing Lilium’s innovative eVTOL solutions to the U.S. market. Galaxy FBO and Lilium have partnered to provide regional connectivity in the area, with planned routes connecting key locales such as Houston Hobby Airport to Galveston and The Woodlands to Galveston.
Lilium has also forged a strategic alliance with EMCJET, an aircraft brokerage and management company based in Houston, which will be among the first to acquire Lilium Jets when deliveries commence in 2026. This partnership underscores the market’s confidence in Lilium’s eVTOL technology and its potential to revolutionize regional air travel.