On February 23, 2023, Lilium, developer of the first all-electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (“eVTOL”) jet, partnered with Collins Aerospace to design, build, and develop the pilot's innovative sidestick system, the Lilium Jet’s inceptors.. New flight controls will be created by Collins Aerospace for Lilium's type-conforming aircraft.
The Lilium Jet inceptors will offer easy access to functionality, secure and natural handling characteristics, and an aesthetically pleasing, ergonomic design. The Collins Aerospace system introduces a new single-pilot eVTOL piloting philosophy by integrating all electrical and mechanical flight controls into two sidesticks. The system will save space and weight compared to traditional sidesticks.
This collaboration is part of Lilium’s strategy of partnering with tier one aerospace suppliers to prepare industrial ramp-up, and support certification. Collins Aerospace will certify Lilium Jet inceptors to commercial aviation standards as part of the supplier agreement.
Yves Yemsi, Chief Operating Officer at Lilium, said: “Our partnership with Collins Aerospace allows us to reap the benefit of five decades of experience in flight deck controls. Our two companies’ collaborative development approach allows us to re-imagine the cockpit and pilot experience, and further strengthens our path towards certification and commercialization.”
(Source – GlobeNewswire)
Jean-François Chanut, Vice President, and General Manager of Collins Aerospace Propeller Systems, said, “This innovating and exciting partnership with Lilium is a first step in defining the right solutions towards more automated, sustainable and safe operations for the future of flight.”
(Source – GlobeNewswire)
About Lilium
Lilium is a sustainable electric aircraft and component manufacturer. The company is backed by investors and works in partnership with governments, regulators, and specialist suppliers to make electric flight a reality.
Lilium accelerates air travel decarbonization. Lilium's 800+-person team includes 450 aerospace engineers and a leadership team that has delivered some of aviation's most successful aircraft.