Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

The state of Ohio secured two aerospace manufacturing investments announced at the Farnborough International Airshow this week, with Electra selecting the state for its first aircraft factory and Beehive Industries expanding its existing operations there. On Tuesday, Electra confirmed it will build its EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft in Springfield, while Beehive said it will scale up production of its 3D-printed engines for uncrewed aircraft in the Cincinnati area.
According to Virginia-based Electra, its $850 million investment in what it called the “anchor” production site for the <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2026-07-15/safran-turbogenerator-will-power-electra-hybrid-aircraft">in-development nine-seater</a> will create 1,975 jobs. The facility at AirPark Ohio next to Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport is expected to build up to 800 aircraft per year, starting at a rate of 400 from 2030.
Denver-based Beehive announced its $70 million investment alongside Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, saying it will add more than 200 jobs in the southwest of the state. The company’s Frenzy engine is starting full-rate production backed by a $29.7 million U.S. Air Force contract.
In June, Beehive announced plans to more than double its metal additive manufacturing capacity. It acquired two precision machine shops, Able Tool Corporation and Planet Products Corporation, to establish a production machining center in the Cincinnati region. Together, the company said, these investments are building the manufacturing capacity required to produce more than 8,000 engines annually.

News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

Electra and Beehive Boost Ohio’s Aerospace Footprint

The Buckeye State catches a charge and a buzz

Electra and Beehive Industries are collectively investing $920 million in new manufacturing plants in Ohio as the state grows its aerospace sector.

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

David Donald

Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

Laser-guided APKWS light rocket rapidly adapted for air-to-air use

Typhoon Rapidly Gains Anti-drone Capability

Charlotte Bailey

Pallet-launched Barracuda 500M exits the rear ramp

Anduril Cruise Missiles Could Launch From Embraer’s C-390

Leeham News and Analysis Staff

News and issues relating to international air transport and cargo carriers, national airlines and regional airlines, including aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

777X expected to enter service next year

Boeing Faces ‘Terrible Teens’ Scenario with Early 777-9s

News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

The proposal commits to a UK final assembly facility

BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab Team for UK Trainer

Kerry Lynch

News about commercial airlines, including regulations, aircraft orders, safety, acquisitions, and mergers.

Widebody and narrowbody deals follow opening-day surge

PAL, Shohin Airlines Sign for 13 More Airbus Jets

Amy Wilder

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

Farnborough Airshow 2026

More In Aircraft

Typhoon Rapidly Gains Anti-drone Capability

Laser-guided APKWS light rocket rapidly adapted for air-to-air use

Anduril Cruise Missiles Could Launch From Embraer’s C-390

Pallet-launched Barracuda 500M exits the rear ramp

Boeing Faces ‘Terrible Teens’ Scenario with Early 777-9s

777X expected to enter service next year

BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab Team for UK Trainer

The proposal commits to a UK final assembly facility

PAL, Shohin Airlines Sign for 13 More Airbus Jets

Widebody and narrowbody deals follow opening-day surge

Beech Denali Service Entry Slips to 2027, Tests Continue

FAA certification documentation to follow October test completion

Order Boon Continues for Boeing at Farnborough

Boeing brings in orders for 30 more aircraft

Saudi Arabia’s THC Inks $2.9B Deal for Bombardier Jets

Deal marks helicopter operator's first fixed-wing move

AIN Products

SUBSCRIPTIONS

RESOURCES

ABOUT AIN