VÆRIDION, a German aircraft manufacturer founded in 2021 by former Airbus managers Ivor van Dartel and Dr. Sebastian Seemann, is dedicated to developing affordable, zero-emission regional flights. With a recent €14 million funding round, their total funding has reached €17.2 million. The company aims to transform regional air travel in Europe through its innovative Microliner aircraft, a technological solution that promises efficiency and sustainability. The Microliner is designed as a nine-seater aircraft, capable of expanding to serve wider pan-European flights and making a significant impact on the aviation sector.
Unlike previous advancements in regional aviation, the Microliner incorporates a fixed-wing design with advanced battery-wing integration and a multi-engine single-propeller system. This configuration enhances safety and efficiency while minimizing noise, making it ideal for smaller airfields and underserved regions. The plane’s nominal range of 400 km plus IFR reserves and successful initial validation tests position it as a viable option for the future of regional air travel. The aircraft is set for prototype flights in 2027, with affordable commercial flights expected by 2030.
What is VÆRIDION’s Certification Status?
VÆRIDION recently became the first General Aviation manufacturer to complete a Pre-Application Contract with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), marking a pivotal step in its certification journey. With a structured certification roadmap in collaboration with EASA, the company advances towards applying for its Type Certification. This early engagement with regulators offers a streamlined and secure certification process, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
How is VÆRIDION Expanding Its Market Presence?
The company has already secured its initial customers in Denmark, Benelux, and Germany, indicating a strong market interest in its aircraft. The Microliner will first target the business travel segment before venturing into consumer travel, supported by a team of 38 experts and collaborations with institutions like TU Munich and Bauhaus Luftfahrt e.V. In 2024, VÆRIDION opened a battery development facility at Bosch Collaboration Campus and launched a Dutch subsidiary to further its commercialization efforts and innovation.
According to CEO Ivor van Dartel, the new funding will significantly expedite the development of the Microliner, enabling certification-ready prototype flights by 2027 and launching commercially by 2030. This advancement coincides with a strategic focus on partnerships and market strategies, aiming to set a new standard in sustainable and cost-effective aviation.
The funding round was led by World Fund with participation from Project A Ventures, Vsquared Ventures, among others. Daria Saharova from World Fund emphasized the necessity of decarbonizing aviation due to growing demand, highlighting VÆRIDION’s unique technology and expert team as pivotal in shaping the future of flight. Uwe Horstmann from Project A Ventures noted the importance of fostering electric aviation capabilities within Europe to maintain a competitive edge globally.
VÆRIDION plans to use the Series A capital along with Bavarian and German research funds for strategic hires and commercial expansion. The anticipated cost of flights aims to match that of a first-class high-speed rail ticket, making this a competitive option for regional travel. The focus on electric aviation not only supports environmental goals but also strengthens Europe’s strategic autonomy in the global market.
