The Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) has confirmed that on the night of 21st September, a Nouvelair aircraft began its descent towards the wrong runway — one already occupied by a departing easyJet flight. The two aircraft came within three metres of one another before the Nouvelair pilot initiated an emergency go-around.

The BEA’s 23-page preliminary report reveals that air traffic control had instructed the Tunisian aircraft to land on runway 4L at least five times. However, the pilot mistakenly aligned with runway 4R, where the easyJet jet was waiting for clearance to take off. The report, according to local media, also notes that runway layout, lighting intensity and poor weather may have contributed to the confusion.

Although not yet definitive, the findings underline just how close Nice came to disaster. The BEA writes: “The aircraft was 10 feet above the ground and therefore from the easyJet aircraft when the go-around was initiated.”

Minister: “We must guarantee performance and vigilance”

Just days before the release of the BEA report, France’s Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot appeared on BFM Nice Côte d’Azur to outline the government’s immediate response. He announced the deployment of 30 new air-traffic controllers across the south-east region within the next three years, including several at Nice.

“These reinforcements had already been planned,” said Tabarot, “but this incident confirms just how necessary they are.”

In a further move to strengthen accountability, the minister also confirmed that biometric badges will be installed at the Nice control tower to monitor staff presence in real time.

“This is about rationalising the organisation and guaranteeing performance,” he said. “Everyone must be at their post, fully focused on the mission.”

Pressure mounts on France’s third busiest airport

Nice Airport handles more than 14 million passengers each year and is one of France’s most active regional hubs. But recent internal concerns from control tower staff — including issues with staffing, narrow runway widths, and inconsistent lighting — have exposed growing operational pressure.

Tabarot acknowledged the strain: “Nice Airport is handling practically the same traffic as Roissy-Charles de Gaulle, but with equivalent staffing levels.”

The government had already launched a full inspection of the control towers at Nice and Aix-Marseille in July, citing “underperformance and significant delays”.

Full findings still to come, but changes already underway

While the BEA’s final report has yet to be completed, the government is moving ahead with reform. The incident has triggered public scrutiny and urgent calls for improved oversight.

“Safety relies on precision and human reliability,” said the minister. “We will draw all necessary conclusions to ensure the safety of our citizens and passengers.”

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Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti

]]> https://monacolife.net/eu-wide-driving-bans-approved-in-sweeping-new-road-safety-reforms/ Wed, 22 Oct 2025 12:00:24 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=114914 The European Parliament has passed a landmark package of road safety reforms, introducing a rule that will see driving bans for serious offences enforced across all EU member states — ending the long-standing loophole that allowed offenders to escape penalties by crossing borders.

Until now, drivers banned in one EU country could often continue driving elsewhere, as disqualifications weren’t automatically recognised across borders. This legal gap meant that up to 40% of driving offences committed abroad went unpunished.

Under the new legislation, a driver disqualified for serious offences — including drink-driving, excessive speeding, or causing death or injury — will be banned throughout the EU, regardless of where their licence was issued. Once a ban is imposed, the issuing country must revoke the licence within 15 days.

While some exceptions remain due to varying national laws (such as drink-driving thresholds), the reform is seen as a major step forward. “The decision of suspension and withdrawal will be recognised and enforced throughout Europe,” said Italian MEP Matteo Ricci, who led the bill.

Digital licences and lower age limits

A second reform introduces digital driving licences accessible by smartphone, alongside updated testing standards and a two-year probation period for new drivers. Seventeen-year-olds will be allowed to drive under supervision, while the minimum age for professional truck and bus drivers is being lowered to 18 and 21 respectively — a move aimed at addressing driver shortages across the continent.

However, the age change has sparked concern. “Younger truck drivers are far more likely to be involved in road accidents,” warned Greek MEP Elena Kountoura, who argued that better working conditions, not lower standards, are the answer to staffing gaps.

New training requirements will focus more on road awareness, blind spots, and interaction with vulnerable users like pedestrians and cyclists. Licences will now remain valid for 15 years for private vehicles and five for commercial vehicles, with stricter terms for older drivers.

The reforms will be implemented nationally within three years and support the EU’s ‘Vision Zero’ goal of halving road deaths by 2030. With nearly 20,000 lives lost on Europe’s roads last year, the EU hopes these measures will mark a turning point for safer mobility.

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Photo credit: Randy Tarampi, Unsplash

]]> https://monacolife.net/nice-airport-expansion-back-on-track-after-court-ruling/ Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:57:01 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=114309 The long-debated expansion of Nice Côte d’Azur Airport’s Terminal 2 is officially moving ahead, following a decisive ruling from the Marseille Administrative Court that reinstated its building permit and rejected appeals from environmental groups.

The court’s decision, handed down on 18th September, validated the construction authorisation originally issued by the Alpes-Maritimes prefecture in 2020, confirming that all environmental and procedural conditions had been met. Environmental associations had filed several appeals since 2021, arguing that the project risked damaging local ecosystems near the Var estuary, but the court’s decision now clears the way for full resumption of works.

A necessary modernisation for growing traffic

The extension of Terminal 2 responds to steady growth in passenger numbers that has outpaced the airport’s existing capacity. Before the pandemic, Nice Côte d’Azur had already surpassed its theoretical annual capacity of 14 million passengers, recording record levels in 2019. Without adaptation, airport officials warned, the site would struggle to maintain safety and comfort standards as demand continues to rise.

The project aims to increase capacity to 18 million passengers per year, improving both passenger flow and quality of service while reflecting the international image of the Côte d’Azur. “Without these upgrades, the airport would be forced to operate in increasingly degraded conditions of fluidity, safety and comfort,” said a spokesperson for Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur.

The new terminal infrastructure will cover 25,211 square metres of floor space on a 9,900-square-metre site. It includes a new boarding dock with six gates and pre-boarding zones, as well as a resource module with 36 check-in counters and a new baggage sorting system. Importantly, the project will result in no artificialisation of soil, ensuring a low environmental footprint.

Environmental protection at the core of the project

Located at the mouth of the Var River — a Natura 2000 classified site that is home to over 200 species of birds — the airport’s proximity to sensitive habitats made environmental safeguards a central issue. Airport executives delayed the start of major works until summer 2023, avoiding disruption during nesting season.

Two key professionals — an ecologist and an environmental engineer — have been appointed to oversee the site daily. The ecologist monitors the health of the local ecosystem, while the engineer ensures that all construction complies with environmental guidelines. “All environmental risks were identified, studied and addressed before the permit was granted,” the airport confirmed.

Looking ahead

With the legal hurdles now cleared, work on the Terminal 2 expansion is advancing rapidly. Once completed, the upgrade will raise Nice’s operational capacity by almost 30%, easing congestion and enhancing passenger experience at France’s second-busiest airport outside Paris.

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Image source: Stéphane Aurel Architecture

]]> https://monacolife.net/red-sea-rising-amaala-positions-itself-as-the-new-caribbean-for-luxury-yachts/ Sat, 11 Oct 2025 06:00:39 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=113880 From an untouched coastline to a multi-billion-dollar yachting haven, AMAALA was pitching itself at the Monaco Yacht Show as the world’s next great superyacht destination – a year-round alternative to the Caribbean with ambitions to rewrite the map of luxury sailing.

At this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, amid the glittering fleet of the world’s largest yachts, one name kept surfacing not for a launch or refit, but for an entirely new destination. AMAALA, built almost from scratch on Saudi Arabia’s north-western Red Sea coast, is presenting itself as a bold alternative to the Caribbean for winter cruising – a year-round haven where desert mountains meet turquoise seas; where billions have been invested to create what is being billed as the world’s most exclusive yachting base.

And it is hard not be impressed.

A destination born from nothing

Only a few years ago, this stretch of coast was largely empty – dunes, reefs and volcanic rock. Today, under the guidance of Red Sea Global, it is transforming into a 4,200km² enclave of ultra-luxury hospitality and sailing infrastructure.

At its heart lies Triple Bay Marina, a natural harbour reimagined to host 116 yachts up to 140 metres, fronted by the striking AMAALA Yacht Club designed by HKS. It is here that superyachts will find year-round warmth, unspoilt cruising grounds and facilities capable of rivaling the Med and the Caribbean.

As a statement of intent, AMAALA has already secured one of sailing’s most coveted prizes: hosting the Grand Finale of The Ocean Race in 2027. For the first time in its 50-year history, the gruelling round-the-world challenge will end not in Europe, but in the Red Sea.

Why the Red Sea, and why now?

The pitch to owners and captains in Monaco was simple: AMAALA offers what the Caribbean cannot. A new, untouched cruising region free from overcrowding. Pristine coral reefs teeming with life, where the Corallium Marine Life Institute aims not only to protect but increase biodiversity by 30% by 2040.

Year-round sailing weather without the transatlantic crossings. And infrastructure designed entirely around the expectations of modern superyacht owners – helipads, high-capacity berths, discreet hospitality and a sailing academy to train the next generation.

In short, AMAALA promises the adventure of new waters with the security of world-class luxury.

Billions poured into a vision

The sheer scale of investment is staggering. AMAALA’s first phase alone is delivering eight resorts with 1,470 keys operated by brands including Four Seasons, Rosewood, Six Senses, Ritz-Carlton and Equinox. Entire wellness villages are being created – Six Senses with its longevity clinic, Rosewood with its Asaya sanctuary – all powered by 100% renewable energy. Every detail is engineered to appeal to the world’s wealthiest travellers, from the marina design down to the magnesium rooftop pools.

Saudi Arabia’s aim is to anchor the luxury yachting industry to its Red Sea coast as firmly as the Caribbean has anchored it to its islands.

Would you go?

For seasoned yacht owners who have “seen it all”, AMAALA offers something truly rare: the chance to be first. First to sail these sheltered bays. First to discover diving reefs that few outside the region have touched. First to experience an ultra-luxury destination literally built out of nothing, but with ambitions as vast as the Red Sea itself.

In a world where the Caribbean is often crowded and the Med is seasonal, AMAALA’s message at Monaco was both provocative and persuasive: why not drop anchor somewhere entirely new?

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]]> https://monacolife.net/government-confirms-travel-rules-for-monaco-residents-ahead-of-new-schengen-border-system/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:10:29 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=114131 The Monegasque government has clarified how the European Union’s forthcoming Entry/Exit System (EES) will impact residents and nationals of the Principality, ahead of its phased implementation beginning 12th October 2025.

The Entry/Exit System is a new EU initiative designed to strengthen border security and streamline the management of travel across the external borders of the Schengen Area. The system will replace traditional passport stamping with a fully digital process that records travellers’ personal details, entry and exit dates, and biometric data including fingerprints and a facial image.

The EES will initially be introduced at selected external border crossing points and is expected to be fully operational across all Schengen border posts by 10th April 2026.

Monaco residents exempt from EES registration

In its statement, the Monegasque government confirmed that the new digital system will not apply to Monegasque nationals or residents holding valid residence permits. This exemption is in accordance with the Schengen Borders Code and the EU regulation that governs the EES.

As a result, Monaco residents will not be required to undergo biometric registration when entering or exiting the Schengen Area, and their travel procedures will remain unchanged.

No changes to travel processes for most Monegasques

The government reiterated that, from a practical standpoint, the introduction of the EES will have no effect on Monaco nationals or residents with a valid titre de séjour. Their ability to cross external Schengen borders will remain as it is today, without additional checks or data collection.

Member States of the Schengen Area have been informed of this provision to ensure it is respected during implementation.

Longer waiting times possible at borders

While the system is designed to simplify travel in the long term, the government has warned that longer waiting times may occur during the early phases of implementation, particularly for third-country nationals who are required to complete the digital registration process.

The EES is part of broader efforts to modernise and secure travel into the Schengen Area, especially for short stays of less than 90 days.

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Photo by Monaco Life

]]> https://monacolife.net/air-france-begins-rollout-of-free-starlink-wi-fi-on-board/ Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:11:07 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=113297 Air France has begun rolling out free high-speed Wi-Fi powered by SpaceX’s Starlink, with the first five aircraft in its fleet now offering the service to passengers.

The pioneering connectivity programme, first announced in autumn 2024, makes Air France the first major European airline to provide free, secure and fast in-flight internet. By the end of this year, the company expects 30% of its fleet to be equipped, with full coverage across all aircraft by the end of 2026.

With the system, passengers can enjoy stable broadband speeds that allow them to stay in touch with loved ones, follow global news, stream TV, films and series, and even play multiplayer video games. Multiple devices can be connected at the same time, whether smartphone, tablet or laptop.

Expanding across the fleet

So far, two Embraer 190s, two Airbus A220s, and one Airbus A350 have been fitted with Starlink equipment, marking the first step in a progressive fleet-wide rollout that will also cover Air France’s regional aircraft.

Access to the service is simple: customers log in with their Flying Blue account, the Air France-KLM group’s frequent flyer programme. For those who are not yet members, a free account can be created on board in just a few clicks.

During the transition, aircraft not yet equipped with Starlink will continue to offer a free messaging service for Flying Blue members, while non-members can purchase broader connectivity. Complimentary access remains in place for Flying Blue Ultimate and La Première customers.

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Photo source: Unsplash

]]> https://monacolife.net/uber-set-to-offer-monaco-helicopter-rides-after-jobys-blade-acquisition/ Tue, 23 Sep 2025 09:24:15 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=113611 Joby Aviation has announced it will integrate Blade’s air mobility services into the Uber app from 2026, following its acquisition of Blade’s passenger business in August. The move brings Blade’s Monaco and Riviera operations – including the high-traffic Nice-Monaco route – closer to a new, electric future under Joby’s leadership, and marks a major step in Joby and Uber’s long-term urban air mobility partnership.

In August 2025, California-based aviation company Joby completed its acquisition of Blade’s global passenger business, which includes Blade Europe and its scheduled services in New York, Los Angeles, and the South of France. The deal gives Joby immediate access to Blade’s extensive infrastructure and more than a decade of operational experience in short-haul vertical air mobility.

This acquisition also places Joby in control of the air mobility network that Blade has built in the Principality, stemming from its 2022 purchase of Monacair’s commercial passenger operations. That earlier deal made Blade the exclusive provider of scheduled helicopter transfers between Monaco and Nice, a critical corridor for business and leisure travellers in the region.

Blade’s Monacair link strengthens Monaco’s role

Monacair, founded by Stefano Casiraghi and long associated with the Princely Family, became a central part of Blade’s European ambitions when the American company took over its passenger-facing operations in 2022. Blade retained the Monaco branding, but took over responsibility for marketing, booking, and customer experience, while flight operations remained under Monacair’s control.

The addition of Blade’s Monaco routes to the Uber app is expected to simplify how passengers book helicopter transfers in and out of the Principality, particularly for those already using Uber for ground transportation.

Uber app to feature Blade flights in 2026

Joby and Uber confirmed that Blade’s services – including those in the French Riviera – will be available to book via the Uber app from next year. The move is part of a wider strategy to build customer familiarity with air mobility options ahead of the launch of Joby’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in key markets including the United States, United Kingdom, Japan and the UAE.

JoeBen Bevirt, CEO of Joby, said the integration would bring “the magic of seamless urban air travel” to Uber customers around the world, while laying the groundwork for the introduction of quiet, zero-emissions aircraft in the years ahead.

Andrew Macdonald, President and COO of Uber, added that advanced air mobility would “deliver safe, quiet, and sustainable transportation to cities around the world” through the combined scale and expertise of Joby and Blade.

A new chapter for Monaco’s air connections

Monaco’s close proximity to Nice Airport and its status as a hub for luxury and executive travel have made the helicopter link between the two cities one of Europe’s busiest. With the Blade brand now under Joby’s leadership, and bookings soon available via Uber, Monaco’s key air route is once again at the forefront of innovation.

Longer-term, the partnership could lead to the eventual deployment of all-electric air taxis on the route, aligning with the Principality’s environmental goals and commitment to future-focused mobility solutions.

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AI generated photo of Uber helicopter flying over Monaco created by Cassandra Tanti, photo of Monaco by Cassandra Tanti 

Spearheaded by Minister of Transport Kamel Al-Wazir and Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, Egypt’s delegation will highlight the nation’s transformation into a key yachting and maritime tourism hub. “We invite global yachting and tourism leaders to discover Egypt’s incomparable diversity, where timeless civilisation meets endless blue horizons,” said Minister Fathy ahead of the show.

Modern marina developments in destinations such as Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh and El Gouna boast state-of-the-art berthing facilities, round-the-clock security, full-service maintenance, and VIP hospitality – all at more accessible rates than those found in traditional Mediterranean or Caribbean ports.

From coral reefs to ancient temples

In Egypt, guests can dive coral sanctuaries in the Red Sea by morning and tour the temples of Luxor and Aswan by private jet in the afternoon. Along the Nile, boutique yachts and dahabiyas deliver a serene blend of river cruising and exclusive cultural exploration.

Looking ahead, Egypt plans to host regattas, rallies, and maritime festivals, supported by sustainability-focused policies aimed at protecting fragile marine ecosystems. Its strategic location, enhanced infrastructure, and direct access through the Suez Canal all reinforce its growing role on the world yachting map.

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Photo: Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, credit: Andres Siimon, Unsplash

]]> https://monacolife.net/new-operating-hours-announced-for-col-de-tende-tunnel/ Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:04:04 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=113390 Authorities have announced updated opening times for the Col de Tende tunnel, which will remain subject to ongoing works on the French side of the border.

From 15th to 28th September, the tunnel will be open on weekdays from 12pm to 1pm and from 6pm to 9pm. On Saturdays and Sundays, access will be limited to the evening slot between 6pm and 9pm.

From 29th September to 4th December, the weekday timetable will change slightly, with the tunnel accessible from 6pm to 8pm and again from 6pm to 9pm, while weekend openings will remain from 6pm to 9pm.

From 5th December to 11th January, the tunnel will be open daily from 6pm to 9pm.

Works continue on the French side

Officials have confirmed that the tunnel cannot yet operate at full capacity, as construction work continues on the French side of the border. The works are expected to require several more months before completion.

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Photo source: Ventimiglia Facebook page

In June, Monaco’s Direction des Relations Diplomatiques et Consulaires urged students to exercise extreme caution with their visa applications, stressing that stricter checks now include mandatory disclosure of social media accounts. That notice, first reported by Monaco Life on 22nd June, underlined that politically sensitive posts could result in visas being denied. The latest crackdown in Washington confirms that US authorities are extending their scrutiny of foreigners’ online behaviour — a trend with direct implications for students, professionals and travellers from Monaco and the French Riviera.

Rubio vows deportations

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a post on X that “visa revocations are under way” and warned: “If you are here on a visa and cheering on the public assassination of a political figure, prepare to be deported.” Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau issued a similar warning last week, writing that foreigners “who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country.”

Policy raises uncertainty

The State Department has not said how many visas have been revoked or denied, nor whether European nationals are among those affected. The new measures follow the killing of Kirk, which has sparked fierce political debate in the US.

Kirk, 31, was shot dead on 10th September while addressing students at Utah Valley University. The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was arrested after a 33-hour manhunt and charged with murder. Prosecutors allege he fired a bolt-action rifle from a nearby rooftop.

Fallout and free speech debate

The assassination has already led to professional consequences for some individuals in aviation, education and the media who mocked Kirk’s death online. US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that American Airlines had grounded pilots for such behaviour, calling it “disgusting”.

Attorney General Pam Bondi has gone further, declaring that “left-wing radicals” would be held accountable and adding: “There’s free speech and then there’s hate speech.” Her remarks have prompted criticism from legal experts who note that the First Amendment does not include an exception for hate speech, raising concerns about government overreach.

See also: 

Student visa alert: Monaco issues warning over new US entry conditions

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Photo: U.S. Senator Marco Rubio speaking with supporters at the Americans for Peace, Prosperity & Security Forum at the Pandora Building at the University of New Hampshire in Manchester, New Hampshire. Credit:  Gage Skidmore