eVTOL in Germany
Germany is the epicenter of Europe's eVTOL industry, hosting two of the world's leading manufacturers — Lilium and Volocopter — both headquartered in the country. EASA, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency responsible for certifying eVTOL aircraft across all EU member states, is headquartered in Cologne, giving Germany unique proximity to the European certification process. Bavaria has invested heavily in advanced air mobility research, and Munich is positioned as Europe's premier eVTOL launch city. Germany's strong aerospace engineering tradition and automotive industry expertise in electrification create a powerful industrial base for eVTOL manufacturing.
Germany eVTOL Industry Overview
Key metrics on the electric aircraft industry and market development in Germany.
Manufacturers
Aircraft Models
Active City
First Commercial
Regulator
Certification & Regulatory Framework
How the EASA is approaching eVTOL certification in Germany.
Certification Progress
40%Certification Approach
EASA has published Special Condition SC-VTOL-01 specifically for eVTOL certification, establishing a comprehensive framework covering Enhanced and Standard category operations. EASA's approach includes Means of Compliance for each Special Condition, covers airworthiness, noise standards, and pilot licensing requirements. Germany benefits from EASA's headquarters being in Cologne, enabling direct engagement between manufacturers and regulators.
Key Manufacturers & Aircraft
eVTOL companies and aircraft models active in Germany.
Lilium
Munich-based company developing the Lilium Jet, a 7-seat electric jet with 36 ducted electric engines. Targeting regional air mobility with 186+ mile range. Has secured production facility in Wessling and partnerships with NetJets and Saudia.
View All eVTOL CompaniesVolocopter
Bruchsal-based manufacturer developing the VoloCity (2-seat urban air taxi), VoloRegion (4-seat regional), and VoloConnect platforms. Conducted Olympic demonstration flights in Paris 2024 and has partnerships with NEOM and Singapore.
View All eVTOL CompaniesAircraft Models Under Certification
Government Support & Investment
How Germany is funding and supporting eVTOL industry development.
Government Policy
The Bavarian state government has invested heavily in advanced air mobility R&D through the Bavarian Aerospace Cluster. The German federal government supports eVTOL through the National Hydrogen Strategy (covering electric aviation), Luftfahrtforschungsprogramm (Aviation Research Program), and dedicated funding for vertiport infrastructure. Germany's position as EASA's host country provides unique regulatory proximity for its manufacturers.
Market Projection
Germany's eVTOL market is projected to reach €5-8 billion annually by 2035, supported by strong domestic manufacturing capability and the EU single market. Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Berlin are key target cities. Roland Berger estimates Germany will be Europe's largest AAM market.
Cities with eVTOL Activity
Munich is the primary eVTOL hub in Germany.
Looking for air taxi booking info? See Air Taxi in Germany →
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the eVTOL industry in Germany.
Which eVTOL companies are headquartered in Germany?
Germany is home to two of the world's leading eVTOL manufacturers: Lilium (Munich), developing the 7-seat Lilium Jet with ducted electric engines, and Volocopter (Bruchsal), developing the VoloCity urban air taxi and VoloRegion platforms. EASA, which certifies eVTOL aircraft across Europe, is also headquartered in Cologne.
What is EASA's eVTOL certification framework?
EASA has published Special Condition SC-VTOL-01 specifically for eVTOL certification, covering Enhanced and Standard category operations. The framework includes tailored Means of Compliance for airworthiness, noise standards, and pilot licensing. Both Lilium and Volocopter are actively pursuing EASA type certification.
How much has Germany invested in eVTOL technology?
Germany supports eVTOL through the Bavarian Aerospace Cluster, the Luftfahrtforschungsprogramm (Aviation Research Program), and the National Hydrogen Strategy. Private investment in Lilium and Volocopter combined exceeds $2 billion. The Bavarian state government has dedicated infrastructure funding for vertiport development.
When will eVTOL services launch in Germany?
Commercial eVTOL services in Germany are expected between 2026-2028, pending EASA type certification of the Lilium Jet and Volocopter VoloCity. Munich is the primary target city, with potential expansion to Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Berlin.
What is the market size projection for eVTOL in Germany?
Germany's eVTOL market is projected to reach €5-8 billion annually by 2035. Roland Berger estimates Germany will be Europe's largest AAM market, supported by strong domestic manufacturing, the EU single market, and high demand for airport connectivity and intercity travel.
Stay Updated on eVTOL in Germany
Track eVTOL industry developments, certification milestones, and market launches in Germany. Commercial operations expected by 2026–2028.
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