HOUSTON – The future is here, Houston and we’re getting a front-row view!
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Leading electric aircraft manufacturer and pioneer in Regional Air Mobility (RAM), Lilium debuted the world’s first fully electric jet in the U.S. market in none other than the Space City.
The Lillium Jet, according to the eponymous company, was created for regional travel that still features the aerodynamic shape of a regular jet, but with ducted electric fans. Thereby providing efficiency and speed during flights anticipated roughly of 110 miles.
“Lilium is serious about expanding in the U.S. and actively progressing towards FAA validation,” Matthew Broffman, Lilium’s VP of Commercial, Americas said in a press statement. “As part of our commitment to working with communities across the U.S. and expanding our customer base, we’re excited to showcase our aircraft for the first time in Houston, a city with a proud legacy of aerospace innovation in America.”
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The company is also partnering with Galaxy FBO, to ensure the jet is capable of connecting Houstonians to the broader region such as Hobby Airport to Galveston, the Spaceport to College Station, or The Woodlands to Galveston for example.
“We are excited to transform Galaxy FBO into a cutting-edge hub for the eVTOL innovation,” Jeremy Gee, CEO of Galaxy FBO said in a statement. “As the future of electric aviation takes flight, this marks a significant step in making Houston a leader in sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. Our team is proud to support Lilium’s revolutionary mode of travel that will connect Greater Houston in ways never thought possible.”
Considering how in tap with the space community Houston is, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the Space City would be home for debuting what some are calling a groundbreaking moment in our history. It doesn’t stop people like us, and insiders involved in bringing it to Houston from hiding their excitement.
“Houston is home to the world’s leading aerospace companies, and we’re thrilled to welcome Lilium and this next generation of aviation technology,” Kevin Tipton, Senior Director for Aerospace & Aviation at the Greater Houston Partnership exclaimed in a statement. “Together, we’re on the brink of something groundbreaking for our region.”
The Lillium Jet will later be displayed at the 2024 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition in Las Vegas. Lillium says it’s preparing for its first piloted flight in early 2025.