Private aviation firm NetJets has agreed a provisional deal to purchase up to 150 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jets.
The company, alongside aviation training operator FlightSafety International, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Germany-based Lilium, which is developing and currently testing this new type of sustainable electric aircraft.
Lilium’s jets feature a flexible design that allows for different cabin configurations for between four and six passengers.
Adam Johnson, CEO of NetJets, said: “We’re 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 agreement, the two companies will also explore a business model for the operation of Lilium’s network in Florida, as well as other regions in the US and Europe.
Lilium’s Daniel Wiegand added: “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.”