Skyports and Groupe ADP secure contract to manage Manhattan heliport operations

Downtown Skyport, a partnership between vertiport developer Skyports and French airport operator Groupe ADP, has been chosen as the preferred operator for New York City’s Downtown Manhattan Heliport (DMH). Operations are set to commence in February 2025 following their selection by the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). Andrew Kimball, NYCEDC’s president and CEO, remarked: “New York continues to lead in technology and innovation, enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward with a new operator at Downtown Manhattan Heliport.”

Advancing the AAM Ecosystem

Skyports, based in the UK, specializes in the design, construction, and management of vertiport networks worldwide. Earlier this November, the company began work on the world’s first permanent commercial vertiport in Dubai. Skyports is also collaborating with SEA Milano and 2i Aeroporti to develop advanced air mobility (AAM) infrastructure in Milan and Lombardy, Italy. Groupe ADP, which operates major French airports like Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, and Paris-Le Bourget, also manages ten civil aerodromes across France.

In 2022, the two companies partnered with Volocopter to create the first integrated vertiport in Pontoise, France, which serves as a testbed for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations.

Long-Term Agreement and Unique Features of DMH

Per NYC City Record Online, the agreement with NYCEDC provides Downtown Skyport with a five-year operating term, with the option to renew for three additional five-year terms, potentially extending to a total of 20 years.

Located along the East River at the southern tip of Manhattan near Wall Street, DMH is the only heliport in the United States certified under Federal Aviation Regulation Part 139. The facility spans 84,000 square feet and includes a pier and a barge with parking for 12 helicopters, alongside a passenger terminal featuring a VIP lounge, waiting area, and gift shop. DMH is also notable for being the first public heliport to use a barge for helicopter parking.

Preparing for eVTOL Operations

With the consortium's expertise in vertiport operations, Downtown Skyport is expected to explore integrating AAM services at DMH, paving the way for air taxi services from eVTOL startups like Archer and Joby Aviation.

In a related development, NYCEDC recently extended its concession agreement with Atlantic Aviation to continue operating the East 34th Street Heliport. Atlantic Aviation plans to upgrade utilities and install charging stations to accommodate eVTOL aircraft, aligning with the city’s future-focused air mobility goals.