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

VistaJet announced a deal today worth up to $7.8 billion for 56 Bombardier Globals, with options for up to another 86. Deliveries of this latest batch of Bombardier jets under firm order are due to begin in January 2014 and run through the end of 2017.


According to the companies, the aircraft covered by the new contact consist of 25 Global 5000s, with options for 40 more; 25 Global 6000s, with options for another 40; and six Global 8000s, along with an equal number of options. The new aircraft will be deployed in growth markets, including Russia, China, the Middle East and Africa. Block charter operator VistaJet will also be looking to start tapping the U.S. market by offering intercontinental flights for clients on the East and West coasts.


Later this week, VistaJet will begin a 17-city tour of the Middle East, Central Asia and the Far East. In January, it will start another tour of 17 countries throughout Africa.


VistaJet recently took delivery of the 50th aircraft in its all-Bombardier fleet and around 30 of these are in service today. From four previous deals signed with the Canadian airframer, the operator is still due to receive 11 Learjet 85s and seven Global 6000s next year and a mix of Global 7000s and 8000s in 2017.&nbsp;The average age of the fleet is just under two years, and the company replaces jets after three or four years with 12 to 18 months remaining on their warranties.


VistaJet founder and chairman Thomas Flohr told AIN that all new aircraft purchases are being funded from cash flow and that the company has been achieving year-on-year flight revenue growth of around 25 percent in every year since it was launched seven years ago. He indicated that he remains the sole shareholder, with some debt held by banks.

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

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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.

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

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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News about environmental issues relating to aircraft operations, including noise issues, emissisions, and regulations. See Fuel for biofuel.

Issues regarding financing of aircraft; aviation insurance; tax issues for aircraft operators; new companies and people in the aviation financing and insurance industries.

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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.

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.

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