Lilium, the developer of the all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet, has announced that it has received the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) G-1 Certification Basis required for the type certificate validation of its Lilium Jet by the FAA. This follows the certification basis issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the Lilium Jet in 2020.
In order to facilitate global operations, Lilium is pursuing concurrent certification of the Lilium Jet through validation by the FAA, under the Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement between the European Union and the United States. Lilium is among a select few eVTOL companies seeking dual certification in both the EU and the US, and it is the only to hold certification bases from both EASA and the FAA for a powered lift eVTOL aircraft.
From its inception, Lilium has prioritized ensuring that its design, engineering, and business operations align with rigorous safety standards and certification procedures, with the aim of achieving global acceptance. The certification bases are the result of a collaborative relationship Lilium has cultivated over the years, driven by its experienced senior aerospace engineers who have successfully developed and delivered some of the world's most complex and successful aircraft.
Alastair McIntosh, Chief Technology Officer of Lilium, expressed the significance of this achievement, stating, "We are the first powered lift eVTOL pioneer in our industry holding a Certification Basis from EASA and the FAA. This is a major step towards our goal of achieving early certification of our aircraft in key markets to support a worldwide entry into service. We are grateful to have found great partners on both sides of the pond to electrify the skies. As per FAA practice, there will now be a collaborative process where Lilium and EASA provide feedback to the FAA before the G-1 is issued for public consultation. We look forward to continued collaboration with the FAA and EASA."
Klaus Roewe, Chief Executive Officer of Lilium, emphasized the significance of receiving the FAA G-1 Certification Basis, as it paves the way for global acceptance by aerospace regulators and marks a major milestone towards the anticipated launch of global operations for the revolutionary Lilium Jet in late 2025.
With the achievement of FAA certification basis, Lilium moves closer to realizing its vision of a world where air travel is not only faster but also cleaner and more environmentally friendly.