Héli Air Monaco targets 2028 for electric Valo eVTOL service on Riviera.

Héli Air Monaco and Vertical Aerospace have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the pre-order of Vertical's Valo electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This agreement aims to introduce zero-emission flights on the French Riviera, connecting Monaco with Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, with operations targeted to commence by 2028. The partnership positions the Côte d’Azur as a potential early adopter for electric aviation on short-haul routes.

The Valo eVTOL, unveiled concurrently with the MoU, is designed to initially accommodate four passengers, with future plans for a six-passenger configuration. It features panoramic windows and generous baggage capacity. Vertical Aerospace is developing the aircraft to meet Europe’s stringent 10-9 safety standard, reflecting the highest global commercial aviation safety levels. Infrastructure development for these eVTOL operations is being supported by Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur and Monaco Heliport.

This initiative is seen by both companies as a significant step towards cleaner and quieter air travel. Vertical Aerospace CEO Stuart Simpson emphasized the momentum towards bringing electric flight to market, while Héli Air Monaco CEO Jacques Crovetto highlighted the potential to decarbonize their fleet and reduce noise pollution. Franck Goldnadel of Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur noted the unique opportunity for the region to utilize eVTOLs over sea routes as an alternative to conventional helicopters. The planned deployment, however, remains conditional on concurrent regulatory certification by European Union and UK aviation regulators, infrastructure readiness, and operational preparedness by the 2028 target. Vertical Aerospace currently holds approximately 1,500 pre-orders for its eVTOL aircraft worldwide.