Lilium, a leader in the development of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jets, has announced a landmark partnership with UrbanLink, a newly established advanced air mobility (AAM) operator, to introduce Lilium Jets in South Florida. This strategic collaboration will see UrbanLink purchasing 20 Lilium Jets, marking a significant commitment to integrating eVTOL aircraft into its fleet operations.
Led by Ed Wegel, a veteran airline executive with extensive experience in the aviation industry, UrbanLink aims to revolutionize regional air mobility. Wegel, who has previously raised over $1 billion for various aviation ventures and led FAA certifications for multiple airlines, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "While many airlines have discussed the potential of operating eVTOL aircraft, none have made a definitive commitment. UrbanLink will be the first airline in the U.S. to integrate eVTOL aircraft into its fleet. We are dedicated to revolutionizing the way people move to and from as well as within urban cores."
The Lilium Jet is selected for its superior cabin design, range, capacity, and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for UrbanLink's innovative service model. The partnership also leverages the network of Florida vertiports developed by Lilium and its partners over the past five years, facilitating seamless connections across major South Florida cities including Miami, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Fort Lauderdale, extending to Marco Island. The service launch is targeted for 2026.
Sebastien Borel, Lilium’s Chief Commercial Officer, commented on the deal, "We are proud that UrbanLink has selected the Lilium Jet for its network and operations. This is a huge milestone, not only for Lilium, but for the commercialization of eVTOLs in the U.S. We believe that this purchase of eVTOL aircraft is the first by a commercial operator that isn’t invested in the manufacturer that it is purchasing from. This is a sign that the market for eVTOL aircraft has matured and there is growing demand for aircraft that can provide connections between, rather than just within, cities."
The announcement follows the initiation of assembly of the first Lilium Jet at the end of last year, with the first piloted flight test of the Lilium Jet targeted to occur in late 2024. This venture into eVTOL technology underscores a significant shift towards sustainable, efficient, and innovative solutions in regional air travel.
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