The Lilium Jet has arrived to revolutionize the concept of regional flight. With its electric jet propulsion design and tilting flaps, it promises to take off and land vertically while reaching considerable cruising speeds. It is not a drone, it is not an airplane: it is a hybrid that seeks to connect cities without the need for large airports.
Tilting flaps and ducted fans: the technical key 🚀
The Lilium Jet's propulsion system is based on multiple electric fans housed in ducts (ducted fans) distributed along the wings. These fans can tilt to redirect thrust, enabling vertical takeoff, transition to horizontal flight, and maneuverability during cruise. By eliminating exposed propellers, noise is reduced and aerodynamic efficiency is optimized for flights of up to 250 kilometers. Battery thermal management remains its main technical challenge.
The airplane that confuses birds and investors 🦆
Watching a Lilium Jet take off must be like observing a duck that decides flying forward is more dignified than swimming. The design promises to be quiet, but surely the neighbors of the vertical airport will still hear something akin to an angry giant hair dryer. Meanwhile, investors look at the calendar and wonder if the test flight will arrive before the next funding round.