Saudia Airlines is all set to redefine air travel with electric jets, offering luxury, sustainability, and noise-free flights, all without a runway in sight. Saudia Airlines has teamed up with German manufacturer Lilium to bring electric jets into commercial service, aiming for greener skies. The first batch of these futuristic aircraft will take off by 2026, marking a shift towards zero-carbon air travel. Each jet costs a cool $7 million (AED 25.7 million), and Saudia has already placed an order for 50 units, with an option for 50 more, proving they’re not just dipping a toe in the future but diving in headfirst.
Saudia Unveils Electric Jets For Sustainable Travel
A few months ago, we signed a sales agreement with @SaudiaGroup for up to 100 #Lilium Jets: the largest #eVTOL order in history by an operating #airline. We are now honored to see our #jet showcased at Saudia Group’s pavilion at the Global Logistics Forum. $LILM #FlyElectric https://t.co/QotXAZCdKk
— Lilium (@Lilium) October 15, 2024
What makes these jets special? Vertical take-off and landing capabilities. No runways are needed, just urban helipads. While this feature uses more battery power, it allows seamless boarding and landing in busy cities. This is perfect for the shorter, regional routes Saudia plans to operate, including flights between Jeddah and Riyadh, and key pilgrimage or tourist spots within 175 kilometres.
Big Plans Beyond 2026
— Saudia Group | مجموعة السعودية (@SaudiaGroup) July 18, 2024
Lilium isn’t stopping with the smaller jets. By 2035, they plan to launch a 50 to 80-seater aircraft with a range of 1,000 kilometres. And come 2045, they aim for a 100-seater jet that can cover 2,000 kilometres, ideal for longer flights. Saudia officials gave a sneak peek of the jet this week at a global logistics forum in Riyadh and the excitement was palpable.
These jets offer more than just convenience. They’re cheaper to operate than traditional aircraft and, thanks to battery-powered wings, they produce far less noise. The aircraft will come in two configurations: a luxury four-seater and a six-seater, both promising smooth and stylish journeys. Neom, Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city, is already embracing electric aviation with smaller models like the Volocopter.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Launches World’s First Self-Driving Air Taxi Service for Pilgrims
A New Era For Air Travel
Saudia Airlines’ electric jets aren’t just a glimpse into the future, they’re the beginning of a new era. With sustainability at the forefront, these jets offer greener, quieter, and more cost-effective travel options. As they gear up for a 2026 debut, travellers can look forward to a luxurious, carbon-free way to fly, without the need for runways.
Cover Image Courtesy: Lilium/Website
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