Fractional operator NetJets and FlightSafety International have signed a memorandum of understanding with Germany-based eVTOL developer Lilium for a proposed strategic partnership. The arrangement would provide NetJets with the right to purchase up to 150 Lilium aircraft, introducing more options to NetJets owners to complement their existing flight patterns. NetJets also anticipates supporting Lilium with a private sales campaign for individuals to purchase Lilium aircraft. In addition, the two companies will explore a business model for the operation of Lilium’s network in Florida as well as other regions in the US and Europe.

Lilium co-founder and CEO Daniel Wiegand says: “This partnership is a major step in our mission to build radically better ways of moving and to electrify regional air travel. We believe that the private and business professional segments will be highly attractive markets in the future and, likewise, early adopters of the eVTOL revolution. We couldn't be happier to collaborate with NetJets and FlightSafety to electrify this market and hope to forge a long-term strategic partnership to bring high speed regional electric air mobility to the world.”

The Lilium Jet’s flexible cabin architecture is expected to enable a range of configurations, including four to six passenger layouts, that address both premium and shuttle mission profiles.

NetJets operates the world’s largest fleet of private jets and its strong owner base will provide Lilium with scale and support for its ecosystem in the US, where plans for a Florida transport hub continue to progress.

This collaboration is expected to boost Lilium’s commercial ambitions in Florida and other US markets and would create supplemental direct sales opportunities. The Lilium Jet, which offers high performance with zero operating emissions, will allow NetJets to advance its sustainability efforts by offering its customer base regional transportation alternatives.

NetJets CEO Adam Johnson says: “We are delighted to partner with Lilium’s experienced team to provide sustainable flight services to our customers. Lilium’s aircraft will expand our fleet options and provide our customers with a new and flexible means of private air travel.”

As part of the arrangement, Lilium would also partner with FlightSafety International to provide products and services such as courseware, industry leading immersive and mixed reality training devices and crew training to support Lilium Jet operations.

“Our focus on technology and adaptive learning will help prepare aviation professionals with the highest levels of expertise to support operation of the Lilium Jet,” says FlightSafety president and CEO Brad Thress.