Flying Taxis Lilium Receive Approval from the EU

German company Lilium, specializing in the development of air taxis, has obtained approval from European regulatory authorities to design its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) transport vehicles. This news comes from CNBC.

Lilium has received the "Design Organization Approval" from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is a specialized license allowing the company to design and manufacture its transport vehicles. According to Alister Macintosh, Lilium's Chief Technical Officer and head of the design organization, this approval essentially serves as an "operational license" for the company.

"Obtaining Design Organization Approval from EASA further motivates us on the path to bringing the revolutionary Lilium Jet to the market," said Macintosh in a statement on Monday.

Design Organization Approval is a fundamental requirement for any company involved in the development of commercial aircraft. It confirms that Lilium's organization, procedures, and capabilities adhere to stringent safety standards and regulatory norms for the development of commercial aircraft under Part 21.

Luke Titgat, Acting CEO of the EU agency, emphasized the importance of establishing proper operational rules for such aircraft and environmental considerations, including noise. He stressed the adherence to high safety standards and expressed support for the development of European electric aviation, congratulating Lilium on obtaining Design Organization Approval.

Experts note that this is a significant milestone for an industry that has spent several years preparing its vehicles for commercialization. Flying cars have become a reality due to investments from technology companies and venture capitalists.

In the case of Lilium, its vehicles are more focused on intercity travel rather than international flights. The Lilium Jet uses several small propellers powered by electric motors to provide lift during takeoff and landing, as well as thrust during flight.

When Lilium Jet is ready for commercial flights, it will be able to cover 300 kilometers per hour on a single charge, equivalent to a journey from London to Manchester in the United Kingdom.

Earlier, The Gaze reported that during the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the launch of air taxis is planned, using special aircraft resembling a hybrid of a helicopter and a drone. There are already five special takeoff platforms around Paris, and one platform is located on a floating barge on the Seine River.