Saudia Group Orders 100 Electric Air Taxis from Lilium to Boost Fleet and Augment Global Connectivity
The state carrier, Saudia Group, announced a deal with the German maker of air taxis, Lilium, for 100 all-electric flying shuttles as the kingdom moves in a greater strategic shift toward improving destination connectivity with an increase in transit travellers between continents through expanded fleet operations.
The agreement was signed at Lilium’s headquarters near Munich and involves a firm order for 50 jets with an option for an additional 50. Based on Saudia Group, this increase has been guided by Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transport and Logistics Strategy: accommodate 330 million passengers, facilitate 150 million visits, and host 30 million Umrah pilgrims.
The Saudia Group has also visited Airbus in Hamburg, Germany, following a deal concluded earlier this year in May for 105 A321neo and A320neo aircraft to support such ambitions, making the Saudi fleet one of the most modern in the world once fully delivered.
These electrical shuttles could cover 175 kilometres without requiring airports, run at 250 km per hour, and hold six passengers. It saves time for any traveller over the traditional alternatives. Saudia Academy will be trained in aircraft operations and flight management. The deal is likely to nail down commercial relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Airbus’ European partners in creating investments and jobs, particularly in Germany.
