VoltAero has contracted Altisky to assemble and distribute its Cassio electric-hybrid aircraft family across the US, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean; Altisky brings proven capabilities in aircraft marketing, distribution, maintenance, training and support. This follows VoltAero’s inauguration of its primary Cassio final assembly facility and new headquarters at Rochefort airport in France.

Under the terms of the agreement, Altisky will become a VoltAero partner and is to build a 30,000 square foot Cassio assembly facility with an adjoining delivery centre in the US, along with a training complex that includes a flight simulator. It will also establish a network of regional maintenance support facilities in its area of responsibility.

Bill Minkoff, president and co-founder of Altisky, has significant expertise in aircraft sales, distribution, flight operations and advanced air mobility. Under his management, Altisky became the first US stocking dealer and service centre for Tecnam Aircraft. He is an experienced aviator, having logged 20,000 hours in various types of general aviation, commercial and military aircraft, including serving as a US Navy fighter pilot and instructor, and as a line check captain with Delta Airlines. Minkoff also co-founded the Advanced Air Mobility consultancy company and served as vice president of the Advanced Air Mobility Association.

“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 take off and landing aircraft together with the company’s proprietary electric-hybrid propulsion system,” he says. “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.”

VoltAero CEO and chief technology officer Jean Botti adds that the Altisky partnership opens the all-important North American market for Cassio aircraft: “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.”