Skyports Infrastructure and Linden Airport Services Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop, modernize, and operationalize Miami’s Watson Island Heliport, providing Miami with an immediate landing zone for helicopters and a future hub for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
“The collaboration takes foundational steps to transform the existing, historic site into one of the nation’s most advanced urban aviation facilities, supporting both traditional rotorcraft operations and next generation eVTOL aircraft,” said Skyports in a press release. “Pulling together industry leading relationships and partnerships, the project will include a comprehensive development plan, engagement with helicopter and eVTOL operators, collaboration with real estate developers and preparations for future eVTOL services.
“With a rich aviation history reaching back to the early 20th century, Watson Island occupies a uniquely strategic position in Miami’s urban aviation network, once serving as a key hub for vertical aviation in the city. It is the closest landing zone to Miami Beach and lies just minutes from Downtown Miami, Brickell, Fisher Island, Star, Palm and Hibiscus Islands, and the Port of Miami. The facility’s central location positions the site as a critical hub for vertical aviation, providing unmatched accessibility for residents, visitors, and commercial operators alike. As eVTOL operations launch in the coming years, South Florida will be a leading market globally, further underscoring the importance of the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) facility.
“Linden Airport Services Corporation has been committed to the Watson Island Heliport project for more than 20 years, since being awarded the original heliport contract. Over this time, Linden has worked tirelessly to secure FAA and FDOT approvals, with the final local occupancy permits now in process. Its decades of experience managing Linden Airport in New Jersey, a major helicopter base serving operators throughout the New York metropolitan area, complement Skyports’ operational expertise as manager of the Downtown Skyport (JRB), the world’s busiest civilian commercial heliport. Together, Skyports and Linden will determine the highest and best use of the Watson Island Heliport, restoring it to its former prominence and ensuring it is developed in a way that supports the safe, efficient,