Lilium completes first systems power-on test for all-electric Lilium jet
Lilium, a German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, has successfully completed the first systems power-on test for its all-electric Lilium Jet.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the aircraft’s journey towards its first flight and certification.
The test was conducted on the first in-production aircraft, MSN 1, confirming that it is being built in accordance with Lilium’s design platform and that its flight systems are functioning as intended.
MSN 1 is set to become Lilium’s “ironbird” test aircraft, serving as a fully functional prototype to demonstrate safety and ensure compliance with airworthiness requirements.
Meanwhile, MSN 2, also in final assembly, is expected to be the first aircraft to fly with a pilot on board in early 2025.
Furthermore, production of the fuselage for MSN 3 is already underway, with the company planning to operate six test aircraft as part of its path towards type certification and entry into service, anticipated by 2026.
Testing process
In terms of the testing process, the power-on test involved applying high-voltage power (900 volts) to the aircraft, which was then converted to supply the low-voltage electrical and avionics systems.
These systems include cockpit displays, flight controls, communication, navigation, and surveillance equipment, and the test aligns with standard power-on acceptance procedures used in conventional commercial aircraft manufacturing.
Stephen Vellacott, Lilium’s Chief Technology Officer, emphasised the importance of this milestone in the production process, stating, “Power-on is an important quality gate in the production process of any commercial aircraft. The two Lilium Jets now on our final assembly line, and those to come, will be conforming aircraft, built to the specifications of our design organisation, according to documented processes and in line with established aerospace procedures.”
He added, “When it comes to aircraft production, process control, repeatability, traceability, and above all safety are paramount. Achieving this first power-on milestone demonstrates that we’re on track.”
In August, Lilium reached another important milestone by completing the first phase of electrical integration testing at its dedicated Electrical Power System Lab (EPSL).
This innovative lab simulates the entire powertrain of the Lilium Jet, from the battery pack to the engine, in a controlled environment outside the aircraft.
During this phase, the company successfully tested key electrical functions, including high-voltage distribution, low-voltage conversion, health reporting, and charging systems, laying the groundwork for the aircraft’s future performance.
Additionally, at the Farnborough Airshow this year, Lilium signed an agreement with the Saudi Arabian General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) to develop and implement the required regulations for eVTOL operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, beginning in 2026.