VoltAero, a leading electric-hybrid aircraft manufacturer, has announced a strategic partnership with AltiSky, aiming to expand its operations in North America. Under this new agreement, AltiSky will oversee the local assembly and distribution of VoltAero’s Cassio electric-hybrid airplane family across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The collaboration involves setting up a 30,000-square-foot facility in the U.S. for aircraft assembly, along with a dedicated training complex featuring a flight simulator. AltiSky will also establish regional maintenance support centers to ensure the operational readiness of the Cassio aircraft in the region.
The partnership was officially unveiled at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi, marking an important step in VoltAero’s mission to build a global industrial and support network for its Cassio product line. This follows the recent inauguration of VoltAero’s primary Cassio assembly facility and new headquarters at Rochefort Airport in France.
Bill Minkoff, President and Co-founder of AltiSky, brings extensive expertise in aircraft sales, distribution, and advanced air mobility. His experience includes serving as the first U.S. stocking dealer and service center for Tecnam Aircraft and accumulating over 20,000 flight hours across various aviation sectors. Minkoff expressed his confidence in VoltAero’s approach, stating, “After looking at many of the all-electric airplanes currently under development – including eVTOLs – I’m convinced that VoltAero’s approach is truly realistic, bringing Cassio’s configuration as a conventional takeoff and landing aircraft together with the company’s proprietary electric-hybrid propulsion system. Cassio uses battery technology and power output levels available today, backed by the safety of VoltAero’s dual-source electric-hybrid powertrain. Additionally, its operation from airports reduces risks that eVTOLs face in terms of urban acceptance and the need for significant infrastructure development.”
Jean Botti, CEO & Chief Technology Officer of VoltAero, emphasized that the partnership is crucial for the company’s North American strategy. “Bill Minkoff’s aviation knowledge, along with his extensive business network and proven track record in aircraft sales, provide a partner that will position Cassio as a benchmark in North American regional air mobility,” said Botti.
VoltAero’s Cassio aircraft family includes three models: the Cassio 330 (five-seat), Cassio 480 (six-seat), and the Cassio 600 (10/12-seat). All models are designed for various applications including regional commercial operations, air taxi services, private ownership, and medical evacuations. The Cassio’s innovative electric-hybrid propulsion system, featuring both electric and internal combustion engines, promises to deliver higher performance and significantly lower operational costs compared to traditional aircraft.
VoltAero is also showcasing the Cassio 330 at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi this week and Jean Botti will be participating in the conference with a presentation on regional air mobility innovation.
