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

A private owner in Spain has become the latest European customer for Bell’s 429 twin-engine&nbsp;helicopter. On Tuesday, the manufacturer announced it has signed a purchase agreement for the aircraft, which will be operated by local sales representative World Aviation on behalf of the undisclosed client.
The 429 will fly corporate transportation and charter services in the Costa del Sol and other regions of Spain. World Aviation began in 2014 and has served as&nbsp;an independent representative for Bell since 2020.
The Malaga-based company specializes in passenger and cargo transportation, aerial work, and VIP transfers. It also offers pilot training, maintenance, engineering, and other operational services.
According to Bell (Booth B5504), the 429 has proved a popular choice for VIP operations in Europe, where it has delivered 90 of the aircraft. Operators in that region also include Heli Securité (France), Wucher Helicopter (Austria), and Starspeed (UK, Greece, and Cyprus). Swiss operators of the type include HeliAlps, Airport Helicopter, Air Zermatt, and Centaurium Aviation.
“The Bell 429 is continuing to showcase its breadth of abilities for our European customers—from law enforcement in Sweden and soon passenger transport in the Costa del Sol,” said Patrick Moulay, Bell’s senior vice president for international sales. “The combination of twin engines, IFR capability, and Bell’s BasiX-Pro integrated avionics means the 429 is able to fly in more locations and in a wide range of weather conditions, making it a highly versatile aircraft for corporate VIP missions in Europe.”
The aircraft is powered by a pair of Pratt &amp; Whitney engines, each delivering 625 shp to provide a cruise speed of just over 151 knots. The 429 also flies missions including search and rescue, law enforcement, and emergency medical services. A total of&nbsp;430 units operate&nbsp;worldwide.
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