Lilium, the German aviation company developing an all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet aircraft, has signed a framework agreement with global infrastructure operator Ferrovial to develop a network of at least ten vertiports. The zero-carbon infrastructure and services will cover strategic locations in all major cities across Florida. This partnership seeks to provide an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative transport network connecting locations across the state.

Vertiports are a key component in realising the potential of innovations in eVTOL aviation, providing infrastructure for landing, recharging and taking off with passengers. Ferrovial and Lilium will collaborate in designing and constructing the vertiport facilities as well as the operation and maintenance of the vertiports for passenger service. The first location in south Florida will be announced as soon as spring 2021.

Lilium CEO and co-founder Daniel Wiegand says: “Our partnership with Ferrovial to develop flight infrastructure, is a critical step in delivering the potential of regional air mobility to provide high speed, affordable, emissions-free travel to millions of people. As we accelerate our launch plans, Lilium is committed to partnering with industry leaders, bringing together their strengths and experience with our aircraft technology and passenger service infrastructure. We're excited about what we will achieve together.”

Lilium COO Remo Gerber adds: “Our strategy to bring high-speed transportation networks to an entire region is being brought to life in Florida, and Ferrovial is the ideal partner with their unrivalled expertise in airport construction and operations around the globe. Nearly all 20 million Floridians will live within 30 minutes of our vertiports and the 140 million annual visitors to the Sunshine State will have a high-speed option available to travel to their destinations.”

“We are delighted to partner with Lilium in this big step towards new ways of achieving air mobility and sustainable infrastructure. Our partnership will deliver a uniquely different end-to-end passenger experience,” states Jorge Gil, CEO Ferrovial Airports.

“At Ferrovial, we are determined to conceptualise, design and build the future of transport and mobility infrastructures. In this case, we are partnering with Lilium, one of the leading companies in this nascent urban air mobility ecosystem, to deliver an innovative mode of transport that will shorten distances and improve quality of life for citizens,” adds Rafael Fernandez, Ferrovial innovation director.

The Lilium Jet is intended to connect regions in new, sustainable and more convenient ways. The efficient and ultra-low noise electric jet engines allow the Lilium Jet to operate in densely populated urban areas and cover longer distances at high-speed with zero emissions. By saving time and enhancing connectivity, the service will drive significant economic growth for cities and increase access to industry, culture and nature.