Courchevel Altiport is not like other airports. It's an aeronautical challenge, a legend, and an exclusive gateway. At Jet Monde, we clarify the technical realities for you to land there safely.

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Our Honorary President Yves Darnaudet, a fighter pilot and professional "mountain-qualified" pilot, pioneered the altiport's commissioning alongside Michel Ziegler.

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A tarmac like no other

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Forget the long concrete runways of international airports. Courchevel has a runway of 537 meters only, with a unique feature in the world: a dizzying slope of 18.66%. This is what gives the place its charm and exclusivity. But it also drastically limits the types of aircraft capable of dropping you off there for commercial air transport and safely with a crew of qualified professional pilots.

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Which aircraft can land directly in Courchevel?

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Contrary to what you sometimes see in movies, your usual business jet (Citation, Phenom, or Falcon) will not be able to land in Courchevel. The runway is too short for the regulatory braking distances of jets. However, solutions exist to avoid a car transfer from Chambéry or Geneva:

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1. The Vulcanair Aviator TP 600

It is currently the star of the altiport for passenger transport. The Vulcanair Aviator TP 600 is the only twin-engine aircraft authorized to conduct commercial flights to drop off clients directly at the resort.

• Capacity : Up to 8 passengers.

• The advantage : A "ski-in, ski-out" (or almost) arrival and remarkable mountain performance. It's the ideal aircraft for families or small groups.

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2. The Pilatus PC-12

The famous Swiss turboprop is often seen on the Courchevel tarmac. It's a robust and luxurious aircraft. However, its commercial operation on this specific runway remains subject to very complex restrictions. It is often operated under private transport regulations, meaning on behalf of its owner, thus bypassing the stringent restrictions of public transport, although safety regulations applicable to public transport are still enforced for your safety.

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3. The Helicopter‍

If your plane cannot land in Courchevel and must land in Chambéry, Annecy, or Geneva, the helicopter remains the smoothest way to cover the last few miles:‍

• The Écureuil AS350 B3 : The true "4x4 of the skies". It's the go-to helicopter for high-altitude mountain flights, capable of transporting 5 passengers with surprising ease, even in cold weather (note: limited baggage capacity with 5 passengers).
• The EC135/145 : For those who prefer a twin-engine aircraft, offering a more spacious and quieter cabin for a smooth arrival.

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Prepare for your arrival

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Landing in Courchevel offers the ultimate luxury: time. By avoiding congested summer roads, your holiday begins the moment the wheels touch down on the altiport tarmac, weather permitting, of course...

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Looking to reach the peaks this summer? Contact the Jet Monde team to find the most suitable aircraft.

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