Photo: Lilium
Lilium Receives Regulatory Green Light for Flying Taxi Development
November 27, 2023
In favor of the progression of the flying taxi sector, German firm Lilium announced on Monday that it has garnered regulatory approval to design and operate its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has granted the company “Design Organization Approval,” a conditional license allowing Lilium to bypass industry formalities and proceed with its aircraft production.
This breakthrough, described by Lilium’s chief technology officer, Alastair McIntosh, as a de facto “license to operate,” signifies a considerable milestone in the industry’s effort to commercialize such vehicles.
“Receiving Design Organization Approval from EASA further motivates us on our path to commercialize the revolutionary Lilium Jet. At the same time, we are wary of creating barriers to entering this new market and we have worked in partnership with Lilium, against a demanding timeline. I would like to congratulate Lilium on achieving this Design Organization Approval, which advances Europe’s electric aviation activity.”
Alastair McIntosh, Lilium CTO, via CNBC
Luc Tytgat, the acting executive director of the EU agency, stressed the responsibility his organization carries in establishing operation rules while also ensuring high safety standards and environmental considerations like noise.
The concept of flying cars, once a fixture of science fiction and fantasy, is now closer to reality. Companies like Lilium aim to transform this dream into real-world intercity travel solutions. The Lilium Jet, specifically designed for domestic travel rather than cross-country flights, uses small propellers powered by electric motors for lift and thrust. Once operational, it’s expected to cover up to 300 kilometers (or about 186 miles) on a single charge in an hour.
Founded in 2015 by four friends from the Technical University of Munich, Germany, Lilium aspires to launch commercial flights by 2025. Despite facing potent competition from aerospace giants like Boeing and Airbus, along with startups like Volocopter, Lilium’s recent regulatory approval gives it a significant advantage in this burgeoning market.
Recent News
Media Giants Depend on Sports As Content Shortages Rise
As Hollywood emerges from last year’s strikes, major media companies are turning to live sports to attract audiences and advertisers. This trend was evident during this year’s Upfront presentations, where media giants showcased their upcoming content and advertising opportunities.
New Trader Joe’s Opens in SF After 10 Years
San Francisco’s Hayes Valley neighborhood welcomed a highly anticipated new addition on May 17, 2024, with the grand opening of a Trader Joe’s at 555 Fulton St., on the corner of Laguna Street. This event marks the end of a decade-long wait for residents who have been eagerly looking forward to a new grocery store in their area.
China’s Property Market Boost: Stocks Surge, Copper Hits Highs
The Chinese government unveiled a comprehensive support package that has sent ripples through financial markets. This initiative includes a slew of measures aimed at stimulating housing demand and addressing the excess inventory burdening developers. The immediate impact was a significant rally in Chinese stocks and a surge in commodity prices, notably copper, which hit record highs.
Mercedes-Benz Workers in Alabama Reject Union
In a pivotal moment for autoworkers in the southern United States, employees at a Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama have voted against joining the United Auto Workers (UAW) union. The outcome, with 56% of workers voting against unionization and 44% in favor, comes as a significant setback for the UAW’s efforts to expand its influence in the region.