Saudi Arabia partners with Lilium to advance air mobility roadmap
In a groundbreaking move, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has signed a deal with German electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle manufacturer Lilium. This partnership is set to propel the Kingdom’s advanced air mobility roadmap to new heights.
The memorandum of understanding, inked at the Farnborough International Airshow, solidifies GACA’s commitment to developing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions within Saudi Arabia. This collaboration with Lilium marks a significant step in creating a comprehensive national plan for AAM.
With a focus on integrating AAM technologies securely and effectively, GACA is working closely with global stakeholders to establish the necessary regulatory framework. The goal is to seamlessly incorporate electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) operations with existing aviation systems and other modes of transportation.
Aligned with GACA’s ongoing efforts to promote growth and prioritize passenger safety, the newly signed MoU underscores the authority’s dedication to bringing innovative aviation mobility solutions to the Kingdom. GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej emphasized the importance of this partnership in supporting Vision 2030.
Lilium CEO Klaus Roewe echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the joint efforts to advance regulatory measures for electric aviation in Saudi Arabia. The agreement with Lilium paves the way for a robust regulatory framework that is crucial for the successful operation of eVTOL aircraft.
The announcement follows successful air taxi trials that have contributed to the development of GACA’s AAM roadmap. As part of this initiative, Lilium recently confirmed a landmark agreement with Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, to supply up to 100 eVTOL vehicles. This partnership marks Saudia as the first airline in the region to invest in sustainable air mobility, further solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in innovative transportation solutions.