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

It is just over a year since <a href="?q=node/23192">Rockwell Collins acquired flight planning group Air Routing International</a> and rebranded the business Ascend Flight Information Solutions. The Houston-based operation has had a lower global profile than rival Universal Weather &amp; Aviation for many years but that could be set to change as its new owner supports efforts to get closer to key emerging markets for business aviation.
According to flight operations manager Matt Pahl, the Ascend team in Texas can support operators around the world at any hour of the day or night. They are supported by regional offices in London, Paris, Moscow and Beijing, as well as a network of more local agents who can provide back-up on the ground in countries such as Thailand, Taiwan and Vietnam. From Pahl’s perspective, traffic levels have fluctuated in emerging markets such as Asia and have shown some significant increases over the past six months or so.
“We do now have plans to establish some more operations beyond Houston because some service items require more of a local approach,” Pahl told AIN.
The former Air Routing operation has a 30-year pedigree in flight support, employing more than 90 staff in its weather department, as well as 10 flight planning specialists and almost 40 operations personnel. “We have a long training process and a big database covering operations in different regions,” explained Pahl.
What the Ascend teams find is that dedicated business aviation support infrastructure generally exists only in countries that are receiving significant and sustained volumes of traffic. “The infrastructure will only improve when this is warranted [by the volume of traffic,] so for now we try to make the best of what there is,” said Pahl. “What matters most is not the building but whether there is someone there who can meet the needs of the passengers and crew.”
According to Pahl, most handling headaches start before a flight arrives with arrangements for landing and overflight permits, as well as for parking, being exceptionally onerous and confused in countries such as India and China. Managing expectations is a key part of the flight support role, because companies like Rockwell Collins can rarely control all the outcomes. –C.A.

New developments at FBOs including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

Rockwell Collins Ascends to Global Support

It is just over a year since <a href="http://www.ainonline.com/ain-and-ainalerts/aviation-international-news/single-publication-story/browse/0/article/rock

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Curt Epstein

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 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.

Under the new route, ground handlers can skip the audit

IBAC Offers IS-BAH Self-declaration Option

Peter Shaw-Smith

Gama Aviation is dramatically increasing space with Sharjah Center

FBO Profile: Gama’s Sharjah Center Turning from Alternative to Advantage

Development is due to open in late 2028

New FBO To Land at Puerto Rico’s San Juan Airport 

The company says customers should do due diligence prior to picking a service provider

Evaluate FBOs on More Than a Fancy Terminal: Altea

Amy Wilder

News and developments about aviation fuel, including jet fuel, aviation gasoline, and biofuel.

Partnership with fuel supply group begins in August 2026

Granite Air Center FBO Joins Titan Fuels Network

New developments at airports including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

Organization provided $2.7 million in donated flights last year

AeroAngel Opens Headquarters at Centennial Airport

The South Florida location had operated from a temporary facility at KOPF

Jet Aviation Inaugurates Miami-Opa Locka FBO

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.

More In FBOs