Electric aircraft innovator Lilium has reported progress in its development programme as it moves closer to conducting the first manned flight of its all-electric Lilium Jet. 

The company has signed a firm sales agreement with the Ambitious Group, a luxury eVTOL operator, for eight aircraft, with an option for six more.

The Ambitious Group plans to launch electric air charter services out of Marbella and Amsterdam, with further expansion in Southern Spain, Morocco, and the Benelux region. 

A second phase targets the ABC Islands in the Caribbean.

Lilium's order book now includes 108 firm commitments, 82 additional options, and nearly 600 reservations under memoranda of understanding. 

However, recent insolvency proceedings have seen ASL Group cancel six reservations, though both parties intend to revisit discussions post-restructuring.

The Lilium Jet test campaign has successfully completed the landing gear drop test. The drop test is an essential part of the safety of flight programme, conducted in alignment with EASA and a key requirement for manned flight of the Lilium Jet. 

The latest nose landing gear drop test was performed in November by MA Group at its facilities in Naples, Italy.

Lilium is undergoing court ordered self-administration insolvency proceedings, allowing the management team to remain operational while restructuring. The process aims to safeguard the company’s long-term viability.

Image: Lilium