© Vertical Aerospace
Héli Air Monaco, the Principality’s historic helicopter operator, is preparing to enter a new era of air mobility by embracing electric aviation. The company has announced a strategic partnership with British manufacturer Vertical Aerospace, marking a decisive step toward launching electric flying taxis on the Côte d’Azur by 2028.
The collaboration is formalised through a memorandum of understanding covering the pre-order of Valo, an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) unveiled in London on 10 December. Designed for short-haul regional routes, the aircraft is intended to operate between Monaco, Nice, Cannes and Saint-Tropez—some of the busiest and most prestigious air taxi corridors in Europe.
Vertical Aerospace is targeting simultaneous certification from European and UK aviation authorities in 2028. Initially, the Valo will be configured to carry four passengers, with plans to increase capacity to six in the longer term. The cabin has been designed with comfort in mind, offering generous luggage space and large panoramic windows, positioning the aircraft as a premium yet sustainable alternative to conventional helicopters.
Beyond the aircraft itself, the project also involves significant infrastructure planning. Côte d’Azur Airports and the Monaco heliport have confirmed their support, working alongside the partners to adapt facilities to the specific requirements of electric aviation. Nice Airport, France’s second-largest airport platform, is set to play a key role as a testing and development hub for next-generation air transport.
For Héli Air Monaco, the transition responds to both environmental and social challenges. “By decarbonising our fleet and significantly reducing noise, we aim to offer a flight experience that respects both our neighbours and our environment,” said CEO Jacques Crovetto. Monaco’s Civil Aviation Authority also welcomed the initiative, highlighting the region’s strong expertise in urban air mobility and its potential to lead the shift toward more sustainable aviation solutions.
With this project, Héli Air Monaco reinforces the Côte d’Azur’s ambition to remain at the forefront of innovation, combining luxury, efficiency and environmental responsibility in the skies.