In a groundbreaking move aimed at enhancing connectivity to some of the most sought-after destinations in Saudi Arabia, Saudia Airlines, the flag carrier of the Kingdom, has announced a partnership with Munich-based Lilium for the acquisition of electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) jets.

This strategic collaboration seeks to improve travel to luxury resorts along the Red Sea coast and facilitate direct transportation for Muslim pilgrims traveling to the holy city of Mecca.

Razan Shaker, the communications affairs manager for Saudia Airlines, highlighted the significance of this initiative during a logistics forum in Riyadh.

“Our strategy is to bridge the locations and cities that do not have an airport or that are maybe hard to go to,” she stated.

This effort is particularly crucial for Jeddah, which serves as the primary gateway for pilgrims heading to Mecca, as the holy city itself lacks an airport.

The planned eVTOL services are expected to provide direct links to difficult-to-reach routes, improving the overall travel experience for both tourists and religious visitors.

As part of these plans, Saudia Airlines is working on creating a helipad at the Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower hotel, strategically located near the Grand Mosque.

This will enable the seamless transfer of pilgrims arriving in Jeddah directly to the site of their religious observances. In July, Saudia Airlines made headlines by announcing a firm order for 50 Lilium eVTOL jets, with the option to purchase an additional 50 in the future.

This order marks a significant milestone, being described as “the largest reported firm order of eVTOL aircraft by an airline.” The aircraft, which can accommodate four to six passengers and travel distances of up to 175 kilometers, is anticipated to begin deliveries in 2026.

While the exact financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, industry estimates suggest that each Lilium aircraft is priced between $7 million and $9 million.

The collaboration underscores a growing trend within the aviation industry, where traditional airlines are exploring innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and expand their service offerings.

The partnership with Lilium aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision of diversifying its economy and promoting tourism, particularly as the Kingdom aims to attract visitors to its new luxury resorts along the Red Sea coast.

This initiative is also part of the country’s efforts to elevate the overall experience for millions of Muslim pilgrims who flock to Mecca each year, particularly during the Hajj season.

As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in modernizing its transportation infrastructure, the collaboration with Lilium stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology to improve connectivity and accessibility.

By leveraging electric aviation solutions, Saudia Airlines is positioning itself at the forefront of a transformative shift in the aviation landscape, catering to both the needs of pilgrims and the growing demand for luxury travel experiences.

The move is expected to not only bolster the local economy but also enhance the status of Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for international tourists and religious visitors alike.

With the integration of Lilium’s electric jets, the Kingdom is poised to redefine air travel in the region, marking a new era of sustainable and efficient transportation options.