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

Russian airframer Irkut has begun exploratory talks with Bombardier over plans to cooperate in providing customer support for its planned MC-21 narrowbody airliner. Irkut wants to tap the Canadian group’s expertise in setting up customer support infrastructure.&nbsp; The 212-seat <a href="http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/paris-air-show/2013-06-20/irkut-mc-21-program-schedule">MC-21-300</a> is due to complete EASA certification and enter service in 2017, after making a first flight in 2015. This is due to be followed by a 165-seat MC-21-200 version. Irkut says it has contracts calling for approximately 250 of the new aircraft, with 135 of these being subject to firm orders. All the initial orders and commitments for the aircraft are from carriers within Russia or the Commonwealth of Independent States.


Bombardier announced the discussions with Irkut at the Maks airshow in Moscow, where it is displaying its Q400 NextGen twin-turboprop aircraft, as well as cockpit and cabin demonstrators for its new CSeries narrowbody.

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.

Irkut Turns to Bombardier for Guidance on MC-21 Support

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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.

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Milestone reached two years after the latest version entered service

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New developments and products in avionics, specifically about aircraft electronics in the cockpit.

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News and issues about aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), covering all segments of the aviation industry; and modifications for aircraft and engines. Subjects include product support of aircraft, engines and avionics, MRO company mergers, acquisitions, announcements and personnel, Airworthiness Directives, Supplemental Type Certificate approvals and other topics.

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News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

Fastest single-engine aircraft in Piper’s history gets nods from EASA and other agencies

M700 Fury Racks Up Foreign Certifications

Jessica Reed

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.

Marks the operator's sixth nomination for the International Travel & Health Insurance Journal (ITIJ) Awards

FAI Rent-a-jet Nominated for ITIJ Air Ambulance Award

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Four-week strike will affect aircraft deliveries in the fourth quarter

Textron Aviation Ships 41 Bizjets in 3Q Despite Strike

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.

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