Les Aéronautes de Monaco: A New International Takeoff in 2026

After a landmark year in 2025, the Aéronautes de Monaco, under the Honorary Presidency of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, are entering 2026 with strong international momentum.
Driven by the unveiling of the Monaco-Moravia balloon and a major strategic partnership, the club is strengthening its role as a true aerial ambassador of the Principality, from Monaco’s shores to the world’s leading aeronautical events.

The year 2025 will be remembered as a decisive turning point. A key highlight was the official presentation of the Monaco-Moravia balloon, first revealed during the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show on the Terrasses du Soleil, and later during an exceptional evening event on Palace Square.
For the first time, the public discovered this new national eco-friendly balloon, the result of a high-profile partnership with Moravia Yachting, symbolizing both technological innovation and environmental commitment.

This upward trajectory continued internationally with a major deployment to Qatar, during one of the largest hot air balloon gatherings in the world. The red and white colors of Monaco flew proudly in the Qatari sky alongside crews from across the globe, offering the club outstanding visibility and confirming its growing international stature.

“The invitation to take part in the 6th Qatar Balloon Festival is a strong recognition of our team’s quality. We are proud to have represented the Principality at such an exceptional event,” says Alain Cruteanschii, President of the Aéronautes de Monaco.

Thanks to the support of its new partner, Moravia Yachting, the club now has the means to match its international ambitions, responding to numerous invitations from all continents and participating in the world’s most prestigious aeronautical events. This momentum brought 2025 to a powerful and promising close.

Remaining true to its traditions, the Aéronautes de Monaco Club opened 2026 in Italy, at the Mondovì International Balloon Festival in Piedmont. This flagship event, a cornerstone of the annual calendar, saw the Monaco-Moravia balloon take flight in a warm and convivial atmosphere.

“Mondovì is our official operational base, and we are full members of the local aero club. These days mark the start of our aeronautical season each year and allow us to generate remarkable imagery,” explains Alain Cruteanschii.

Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious years in the club’s history. Through each appearance, the Monaco-Moravia balloon will proudly carry the image of the Principality, helping position Monaco as a recognized player in eco-friendly aviation.

Among the major upcoming events is the Château-d’Oex International Balloon Festival in Switzerland, taking place from January 24 to February 1, 2026, and gathering the largest number of mountain balloons in the world. The club will also take part in a historic record attempt: the crossing of the English Channel by 200 balloons, subject to a favorable weather window before April 30, 2026.

At the same time, a tour of the most iconic Alpine locations — including Gstaad, Verbier, Méribel and Courchevel — is currently being organized for the production of a television film.

Finally, the Aéronautes de Monaco benefit from the unwavering support of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, Honorary President of the club, who authorizes takeoffs from Palace Square. Weather permitting, joint launches with other eco-friendly balloons are planned this winter, with the goal of preparing for the future Prince Albert II Cup in 2027.