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 first of six Air India Boeing 787-9 widebodies equipped with Thales’ Avant Up in-flight entertainment (IFE) platform entered service on Sunday, February 1. India's flag carrier displayed the updated aircraft at the Wings India show in Hyderabad last week.
Air India's IFE upgrade is part of a cabin interior design and fleet renewal for the airline's Dreamliners overseen by JPA Design. This has resulted in new interiors for the economy, premium economy, and business class cabins.
The new IFE system supports the latest iteration of Air India’s Vista IFE offering with more than 3,000 hours of content in multiple languages. The hardware and software package includes Optiq 4K QLED HDR displays with a new user interface for features such as interactive 3D maps and route programming. The installation includes Bluetooth connections for wireless headphones and other devices, plus Thales’ Pulse power supply for up to 60 watts of in-screen USB-A and USB-C high-speed charging.
According to JPA, its cabin design is the first work it has done for Air India’s twin-aisle fleet and reflects “contemporary Indian identity.” Signature colors include soft cream, pink, reds, warm golds, and rich purples.
In all cabins, improved stowage spaces for passengers have been included, plus new surfaces and finishes throughout the aircraft interior with what the design bureau described as soft curves and warm lighting cues.
“Our design goal was to create an interior that feels modern, elegant, and deeply considered, while staying true to the vibrancy and warmth that define Indian hospitality,” said Richard D’Cruze, managing director at JPA Design. “Every detail has been designed to bring Air India’s renewed ambition to life, delivering a world-class experience for passengers from the moment they step on board.”
Last Thursday, Air India confirmed orders for 30 more 737 Max narrowbody jets that took its order backlog with Boeing to 200. Announcing the deal at the Wings India show, the airline finalized previously agreed "incremental purchases" of 20 737-8s and confirmed itself as the customer for 10 more 737-10s that were already included in the airframer's orders tally.

News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

Air India Upgrades Dreamliner Cabins and In-flight Entertainment

Thales and JPA Design contributed to the new 787 interiors 

Air India invests in a new design for all cabin classes in its Dreamliners, which now also feature Thales’ Avant Up in-flight entertainment system.

Air India Upgrades Dreamliner Cabins and IFE Offering

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Chad Trautvetter

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.

Unit can be installed in the airplane’s emergency hatch in about 30 minutes

USAF Picks Gogo’s SD Government for C-130J/J Satcom

Matt Thurber

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.

Company specializes in preowned aircraft sales and refurbishment 

‘Flurry of Activity’ Propels SmartJets into New Year

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.

Device can accommodate up to 8.5 pounds and windows from 13 to 19.5 inches

Sporty’s Adds Flight Gear Starlink Mini Mounting System

System adds high-fidelity sound tuned to each aircraft

Yingling Achieves 100th Alto GV/G550 Installation

Amy Wilder

News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

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.

Installations begin with the company’s Challenger 350 fleet

FlyExclusive Brings Starlink Connectivity to Fleet

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.

Singapore Airshow 2026

More In Cabin Interior and Electronics

USAF Picks Gogo’s SD Government for C-130J/J Satcom

Unit can be installed in the airplane’s emergency hatch in about 30 minutes

‘Flurry of Activity’ Propels SmartJets into New Year

Company specializes in preowned aircraft sales and refurbishment

Sporty’s Adds Flight Gear Starlink Mini Mounting System

Device can accommodate up to 8.5 pounds and windows from 13 to 19.5 inches

Yingling Achieves 100th Alto GV/G550 Installation

System adds high-fidelity sound tuned to each aircraft

FlyExclusive Brings Starlink Connectivity to Fleet

Installations begin with the company’s Challenger 350 fleet

Lufthansa Technik Unveils ‘Smart’ Aircraft Tray Table with Touchscreen Tech

Hidden Touch Display makes the fold-up tray table an intelligent user interface.

Pentastar Gains Gogo Galileo HDX STC for Gulfstreams

FAA certification expands LEO satcom connectivity options

With Capabilities Confirmed, Gogo Launches 5G Network

More than 30 flight test hours proved out the system

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