Lilium Jet to Take Flight in the French Riviera in 2026

Core Viewpoint - Lilium, UrbanV, and Aéroports de la Côte d'Azur are collaborating to establish a vertiport network in the French Riviera, marking the first region in Europe to enable regional air mobility with Lilium Jet flights expected to commence in 2026 [1][2][4]. Group 1: Partnership and Network Development - The partnership aims to develop a network of vertiports connecting key destinations in Southern France, including Monaco, Nice, Cannes, Golfe de Saint-Tropez, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille [1][2]. - Lilium is in discussions with local partners to potentially create additional vertiports in Sophia Antipolis, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille, with conclusions expected by the end of the year [3]. Group 2: Environmental Sustainability - Aéroports de la Côte d'Azur is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 without offsetting its emissions, and the Lilium Jet's low noise and zero operating emissions align with this goal [5]. - UrbanV's vertiports will support emissions neutrality by developing sustainable ground infrastructure for eVTOLs, ensuring safe and efficient operations [5]. Group 3: Market Potential and Tourism - The Côte d'Azur region attracts over 11 million tourists annually, making it a vital transportation hub for both holiday and business events [4]. - The regional network will provide fast, safe, and sustainable travel options, significantly reducing travel time compared to traditional car journeys [6]. Group 4: Leadership Statements - Franck Goldnadel, Chairman of Aéroports de la Côte d'Azur, emphasized the importance of this collaboration for the transformation and decarbonization of regional air mobility [7]. - Carlo Tursi, CEO of UrbanV, expressed the ambition to become a major global operator of vertiport networks, highlighting the potential of advanced air mobility in the French Riviera [7].