Lilium, a leading electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company, has expressed its support for the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYC EDC)’s decision to seek an “agnostic” operator for the Downtown Manhattan Heliport.
The heliport will serve as a key site in the Northeast Corridor regional network for the Lilium Jet, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that offers fast, efficient, and sustainable mobility.
Lilium applauds New York City’s inclusion of all Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) capabilities and the commitment to having an “agnostic” operator manage the heliport.
An “agnostic” operator is one that is open to working with a variety of AAM aircraft, ensuring flexibility and innovation in the future of air mobility.
The Downtown Manhattan Heliport will play a key role in the planned Northeast Corridor regional network for future Lilium Jet operators.
The network will connect key cities such as New York, Boston, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia, offering a new way to travel for commuters, business travelers, and tourists.
The decision to accept a wide range of aircraft and use cases is expected to generate economic benefits throughout the New York City metropolitan area.
The AAM industry is estimated to create thousands of jobs and generate billions of dollars in revenue in the coming years.
“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.”
