Bristow is to have the option to purchase 50 Lilium Jets in addition to providing maintenance services for the Lilium Jet’s launch network in Florida, as well as in other future US and European markets.

A non-binding memorandum of understanding between the two companies outlines collaboration on the development of a maintenance programme to support the operation of the Lilium Jet, including the ramp up of maintenance in support of its entry into service (EIS) and post EIS services. The MoU also enables Bristow to become an authorised service provider for Lilium, and further outlines how the companies may collaborate on achieving the relevant regulatory approvals for operating the Lilium Jet in Florida.

Bristow is actively transforming its business to embrace innovative and sustainable technology including eVTOL aircraft.

This is not Bristow’s first foray into the world of eVTOL: in September 2021 it pre-ordered 25 VX4s from Vertical Aerospace and signed up with Eve to develop a comprehensive suite of UAM products and services for various regions and missions. In December that year it pre-ordered up to 50 Butterflys from Overair, and earlier this month it inked an intent for 100 cargo Chaparrals from Elroy Air.

“Leveraging our more than 70 year legacy of innovative and sustainable vertical flight to partner with companies like Lilium to usher in a new era of vertical flight solutions is a cornerstone of Bristow’s future operational outlook,” says president and CEO Christopher Bradshaw. “Bristow has played a key role in successfully introducing several new VTOL platforms for the past 50 or more years, so it is a natural evolution for us to take a leading role in the new and exciting advanced air mobility market and lend our expertise to innovative and dynamic companies.”

Lilium is among the first eVTOL companies to pair certified air carriers with infrastructure developers and support services, such as maintenance and repair and flight training. The addition of Bristow as a Part 145 maintenance provider marks significant progress, adding another reputable partner to enable its regional air service in North America and Europe.

Co-founder and CEO Daniel Wiegand says: “The Bristow partnership builds on our existing partnerships with other best-in-class organisations. Like our other partners, Bristow is regarded as the best in its field. It is a leading maintenance provider with incredible operational experience.”

The proposed arrangement between the two is subject to the parties finalising commercial terms and entering into definitive agreements with respect thereto, and the satisfaction of certain conditions.