Lilium N.V. (NASDAQ: LILM), developer of the first all-electric vertical take-off and landing (“eVTOL”) jet and global pioneer in Regional Air Mobility (RAM), announced its support for the New York City Economic Development Corporation’s (NYCEDC) efforts to accommodate eVTOL operations by choosing an agnostic heliport operator who will serve a wide range of aircraft and advanced air mobility (AAM) use cases at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport. The Downtown Manhattan Heliport, located near Battery Park on Pier 6, along the East River, will play a key role in the planned future Northeast Corridor regional network for planned operators of the Lilium Jet. 

Recently, NYCEDC closed their Request for Proposals (RFP) window for firms with heliport, airport, vertiport, logistics, or hub management expertise to operate a future Downtown Manhattan Heliport in Lower Manhattan. NYCEDC will act as NYC’s administrator in advancing a concession agreement. Lilium has relationships with various infrastructure partners globally who are vying to operate at this vertiport, which Lilium believes will ensure compatibility for the Lilium Jet at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport.  

Importance for Agnostic Public Assets 

Having an agnostic operator operate heliports or vertiports ensures those sites operate at their full potential by not restricting usage to specific companies, types of aircraft, industries, or hyper-compatible technologies. Lilium commends NYCEDC for its multifaceted approach, likely enhancing the economic benefits the heliport will drive.   

Lilium’s planned commercialization approach focuses on being an OEM with aftermarket support and services while selling to various individuals and companies for private, premium, and shuttle operations. “Lilium’s go-to-market strategy allows for a diverse revenue stream and is predicated on aviation facilities in the U.S., especially those owned by public entities, being open to all types of aircraft,” said Sebastien Borel, Chief Commercial Officer at Lilium. “NYCEDC’s decision to require a heliport operator that accommodates a wide range of aircraft supports this approach.” 

New York Poised for Regional Air Mobility 

Lilium has been a champion for RAM, furthering accessible and sustainable transportation beyond city limits. “With New York City and the surrounding area having a population of nearly 20 million, we believe NYCEDC’s goal for range versatility primes the city and surrounding areas for robust economic potential,” said Borel. “In creating connectivity beyond the five boroughs, New York City can support bringing time-saving and sustainable benefits to businesses, residents and visitors alike.” 

Lilium is the only major eVTOL manufacturer with planned capabilities that would provide for true regional air mobility connections. The potential of eVTOLs for NYC is creating sustainable regional connectivity with the entire Northeast Corridor. Lilium believes this promise is realized with the Lilium Jet, with a planned launch range that can reach Philadelphia, Atlantic City, and the Hamptons, and as battery technology improves, connect downtown NYC to Baltimore, Boston, Martha’s Vineyard, and beyond. 

Lilium will continue working with NYC officials, potential vertiport operators, and planned operators of the Lilium Jet to support this project. The Northeast Corridor regional network will form part of Lilium’s vision of bringing regional air mobility to locations across the globe.