MUNICH, July 18 (Reuters) - Saudia Group signed a deal with Lilium on Thursday to purchase 100 all-electric flying shuttles, the Germany-based air taxi developer said.

The Saudi state-owned airline made a firm order for 50 of Lilium's electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) Jets with an option for an additional 50 later, Lilium said.

The first aircraft are expected to join the Saudi state-owned airline's fleet in 2026. (Reporting by Alexander Huebner in Munich, Writing by Rachel More, Editing by Madeline Chambers)