Aeronautics

An industrial sector

With its four airfields, the Hautes-Alpes has transformed its geography and aviation tradition into a genuine economic asset. Over the years, this mountainous region, renowned for its favorable flying weather conditions, has built up a complete sector, centered around air leisure activities, training and a small industry specializing in light aviation maintenance.

Tallard,
a recognized center of excellence

Of the 4 airfields in the Hautes-Alpes region (Le Chevalet in Aspres-sur-Buëch, La Bâtie-Montsaléon, Saint-Crépin, Gap-Tallard), Gap-Tallard is the showcase of this dynamism. Europe’s leading center for aerial leisure activities, particularly skydiving, it attracts thousands of skydivers and industry professionals every year. Around this hub, a concentration of companies and training facilities has developed, helping to make the Hautes-Alpes a benchmark region for pilots, manufacturers and maintenance specialists.

Polyaéro
a training center

Backed by the University of Aix-Marseille and located on the Gap-Tallard airfield, the Polyaéro training center is a major asset for the attractiveness of the Hautes-Alpes region. The center boasts state-of-the-art teaching tools, including 3D modeling, simulators, technical workshops and connected classrooms. Its modern premises encourage both hands-on learning and collaborative working. From BTS to Master’s degrees, the range of courses covers all aeronautical professions, attracting both technicians and future managers. Polyaéro embodies the marriage of innovation, quality training and local roots.

Companies
with an international outlook

Beringer, a global specialist in aeronautical braking systems, was born in the Hautes-Alpes region and remains firmly rooted here. Icarius, a pioneer in microlight construction, and G1 Aviation, a manufacturer of light aircraft, have all contributed to the development of a unique expertise. In Tallard, Hélicoptères de France has established itself as a major player in transport and specialized aerial missions. Today, this tradition is attracting new investors and international partners. Rotortrade, a global player in helicopter trading, has also chosen Tallard airfield to strengthen its European presence. Aerotechnics, a specialist in aeronautical maintenance, has moved into the Chevalet zone, confirming the attractiveness of the département for high-tech companies.