Lilium has announced its support for the New York City Economic Development Corporation's (NYCEDC) efforts to accommodate eVTOL operations by choosing an agnostic heliport operator that will serve a wide range of aircraft and advanced air mobility use cases at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport. The heliport, located near Battery Park on Pier 6, along the East River, will play a key role in the planned future Northeast Corridor regional network for planned operators of the Lilium Jet.

Recently, NYCEDC closed its Request for Proposals window for firms with heliport, airport, vertiport, logistics or hub management expertise to operate a future Downtown Manhattan Heliport in Lower Manhattan. NYCEDC will act as NYC's administrator in advancing a concession agreement. Lilium has relationships with various infrastructure partners globally that are vying to operate at this vertiport, which Lilium believes will ensure compatibility for the Lilium Jet at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport.

Having an agnostic operator operate heliports or vertiports ensures those sites operate at their full potential by not restricting usage to specific companies, types of aircraft, industries or hyper-compatible technologies. Lilium commends NYCEDC for its multifaceted approach, likely enhancing the economic benefits the heliport will drive.

Lilium's planned commercialisation approach focuses on being an OEM with aftermarket support and services while selling to various individuals and companies for private, premium and shuttle operations. "Lilium's go-to-market strategy allows for a diverse revenue stream and is predicated on aviation facilities in the US, especially those owned by public entities, being open to all types of aircraft," says CCO Sebastien Borel. "NYCEDC's decision to require a heliport operator that accommodates a wide range of aircraft supports this approach."

Lilium has been a champion for regional air mobility, furthering accessible and sustainable transportation beyond city limits. "With New York City and the surrounding area having a population of nearly 20 million, we believe NYCEDC's goal for range versatility primes the city and surrounding areas for robust economic potential," he continues. "In creating connectivity beyond the five boroughs, New York City can support bringing time saving and sustainable benefits to businesses, residents and visitors alike."

The potential of eVTOLs for NYC is creating sustainable regional connectivity with the entire Northeast Corridor. Lilium believes this promise is realised with the Lilium Jet, with a planned launch range that can reach Philadelphia, Atlantic City and the Hamptons, and as battery technology improves, connect downtown NYC to Baltimore, Boston, Martha's Vineyard and beyond.