Lilium to start high speed testing of eVTOL aircraft in Spain

eVTOL-aircraft developer Lilium has sent one of its latest technology demonstrators to a site in Andalusia, Spain for flight testing at higher speeds over longer distances.

The fifth generation of eVTOL aircraft demonstrator, called PHX2 has arrived at the ATLAS (Air Traffic Laboratory for Advanced Systems) Flight Test Center in Villacarrillo to conduct its high-speed testing flight testing campaign over longer distances, in a way not possible at its site in Germany.

The PHX2 eVOTL aircraft carries five passengers, has a range 250km (155 miles) and a cruise speed of 280km/h (175mph) at an altitude of up to 3,000m (10,000ft). The aircraft uses 36 ducted fans integrated into the wing flaps to provide thrust vector control to maneuver the aircraft through its different phases of flight. According to Lilium the proprietary technology also provides advantages in payload, aerodynamic efficiency and a lower noise profile.

Lilium said it chose ATLAS for high-speed flight testing because it provides optimal infrastructure and enables the aircraft to fly over a large, unpopulated area while transitioning fully into high-speed wing-borne flight. Modern facilities and support from CATEC (Center for Advanced Aerospace Technologies) has also been instrumental in setting Lilium up for a successful flight test campaign.

In addition, Lilium has appointed a chief test pilot, Andrew Strachan. Prior to joining Lilium, Strachan’s 30 year career has seen him serve in the UK’s Royal Air Force and then as a test pilot and later chief test pilot at Leonardo Helicopters.

He said, “I’m thrilled to join Lilium at such an exciting moment in the company’s growth. As someone who has been influenced by aviation since childhood, it’s inspiring to be part of a company driving the next phase of sustainable, aeronautical technology.”

Alastair McIntosh, chief technology officer at Lilium said, “We are excited for this next high-speed testing phase to begin in Spain and to welcome new chief test pilot Andy Strachan who is an incredible addition to the Lilium team.”