PhilJets has signed an MoU with Lilium with the intent to purchase 10 Lilium Jets and collaborate with the German eVTOL OEM to establish an operational network across the Philippines and other countries in the Southeast Asia region.
As part of the agreement, which was announced today (Tuesday) at the Singapore Airshow, both companies will partner to develop a future service, including the joint definition of routes, city pairs, and passenger demand for an on-demand eVTOL service in the region.
Sebastien Borel, Chief Commercial Officer, Lilium, said: “Our strategic partnership with PhilJets will expand our footprint even further in Asia, bringing the Lilium Jet to Southeast Asia. The Philippines is well suited for eVTOLs to effectively connect thousands of islands together through sustainable and high-speed air mobility.
“Asia is a key market for Lilium — and with the unique topographical challenges this region presents, the innovative design of the Lilium Jet is uniquely suited to address them.”
As the Philippines has more than 7,500 islands, Lilium says its approach for regional air mobility is a perfect fit for eVTOL service in the country and showcases the broader opportunities for island nations across the globe.
Lilium and PhilJets will also identify potential sites, requirements, and partners for landing infrastructure, including the identification of vertiport partners in the region, sharing vertiport specifications and access to Lilium’s existing network of charging hardware providers.
PhilJets currently operates a fleet comprising 15 private jets and helicopters, with plans to expand further in the next three years, and for over a decade has been a mainstay in the Philippines aviation sector. PhilJets currently operates both private and commercial flights, together with a maintenance services affiliate entity supporting over 100 helicopters.
Thierry Tea, Chairman, PhilJets, said: “Our team is proud to collaborate with Lilium on the mission to transform the Philippine´s mobility with eVTOLs. With its growing economy, geography and important tourism industry, the Philippines is a great match to the Lilium Jet´s capabilities.
“Innovation in aviation is gaining traction among regulators, urban planners and industry leaders of worldwide economies. Providing efficient connectivity to customers while reducing carbon emissions is a major focus for air transport operators such as PhilJets. We are also looking forward to bringing this technology into Cambodia and other countries in the region.”
