The skies above Monaco gained a striking new emblem this week as the Club des Aéronautes de Monaco unveiled the Monaco-Moravia hot air balloon during the Monaco Yacht Show 2025. The launch marked both the official announcement of Moravia Yachting as the club’s main partner and the confirmation of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II as Honorary President of the association.
Founded in 2000 by Alain Cruteanschii, the Club des Aéronautes has long promoted aeronautics while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability, values closely aligned with the Principality’s environmental ethos. The Sovereign himself has taken part in flights aboard the balloon, which is often described as Monaco’s largest flag in the skies. Now, his role as Honorary President adds symbolic and official weight to the club’s mission.
“The Sovereign’s decision to support us by accepting the Honorary Presidency filled me with joy and pride,” said Cruteanschii. “From the beginning, our aim has been to pursue ballooning while respecting nature. This commitment will allow us to continue in that spirit with renewed energy.”
The redesigned balloon, revealed for the first time during the Yacht Show, retains its unmistakable red-and-white Monaco identity, now complemented by the Moravia Yachting logo. For Niall Robinson, CEO of Hill Robinson and Moravia Yachting, the collaboration reflects shared values of elegance, sustainability, and adventure. “Hot air ballooning’s silence and harmony with the wind echo my passion for classic yachts,” Robinson explained. “This partnership will strengthen Alain’s work while also resonating with Moravia’s clients worldwide.”
The Monaco-Moravia balloon was first presented in flight from the Terrasses du Soleil, drawing attention across the city during the Yacht Show. It later featured in a special evening display at the Place du Palais Princier, linking the project directly to the Principality’s most symbolic setting.
Both partners emphasised that this is just the beginning. The balloon is expected to represent Monaco at international events in the coming years, with ambitions to reach new horizons from Europe to the Middle East. “Thanks to this partnership, we can proudly carry Monaco’s colours around the world,” said Cruteanschii.
With Prince Albert’s support and Moravia Yachting’s backing, the Club des Aéronautes is positioning itself as an ambassador of Monaco’s values—uniting tradition, innovation, and environmental responsibility while ensuring the Principality’s presence is visible far beyond its borders.
Image courtesy of ED WRIGHT IMAGES
