Invest-NL invests in electric aviation and European innovation capacity

Electric flying offers opportunities to make short-haul flights more sustainable and reduce emissions and noise pollution. VÆRIDION is developing the Microliner for this purpose: a fully electric aircraft for nine passengers, with an intended range of 400 kilometres.

The aircraft is intended to enable regional flights without direct CO₂ emissions. VÆRIDION also expects operating costs to be lower than those of comparable aircraft powered by fossil fuels. According to the company, ticket prices could be comparable to those of a first-class train ticket. As existing regional airports can be used, no new rail links would be needed, potentially saving costs and CO₂ emissions during infrastructure construction.

Investing in Dutch and European capacity for innovation

With this investment, Invest-NL is supporting not only the decarbonisation of aviation, but also the development of European technology. VÆRIDION is headquartered in Munich and has an office in Delft. There, the company works with TU Delft, NLR and GKN Fokker, among others.

This collaboration strengthens the Dutch aviation industry and creates opportunities for new business activity and high-quality employment. At the same time, developing home-grown technology contributes to a more resilient Europe that is less dependent on technological developments outside Europe.

Mobilising capital together for sustainable aviation

Developing and certifying an electric aircraft requires substantial capital and involves risks. That is precisely why Invest-NL is investing. Together with SHIFT Invest, Invest-NL is leading a €30 million funding round. World Fund, Project A, Vsquared Ventures and other investors are also participating. Together, they are mobilising capital for the development of sustainable aviation technology. In addition, through the CAROLUS project, VÆRIDION has been selected for an additional €94.5 million grant from the European Innovation Fund

The funding will enable VÆRIDION to further develop the technology, build the first prototype and take the next steps towards certification.

In this way, the investment brings electric flying closer and, together with its partners, Invest-NL is building a more sustainable, innovative and resilient Netherlands. Invest-NL's investment has been made possible in part by a guarantee from InvestEU.