By using the laser-assisted air plasma spraying (LAAPS), the laser beam interacts simultaneously with the plasma torch in order to increase coating surface temperature and possibly superficially remelt the coating. As a result, the microstructure is partially densified and macrocracks can be inhibited. In this paper, LAAPS was performed to improve the mechanical properties of ZrO₂-8%Y₂O₃ coatings. The coating microstructure was characterized by optical microscopy, SEM and X-ray diffraction. The mechanical characterization was done by hardness measurements and erosive wear tests. Results showed that laser assistance may induce: (1) a decrease of the amount of voids between the splats, (2) a columnar dendritic structure in and through the coating splats. LAAPS did not affect the hardness or the erosive wear resistance of yttria partially stabilized zirconia coatings. The evaluation of the thermal shock resistance is in progress.