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

Gulfstream designs, develops, manufactures, markets, and services business jet aircraft.

Bombardier manufactures a variety of business aircraft models, provides engineering, and aircraft maintenance services.

Bombardier Challenger 600, 601, 604, 605, and 650

Dassault Falcon 2000, 2000DX, 2000EX, 2000EX EASy, 2000LX, 2000LXS, and 2000S

Charles Alcock

Over the past 12 months, Empire Aviation has added four aircraft to a managed fleet now consisting of 25 business jets. Last week, the Dubai-based company also announced plans to develop a new facility next to the main VIP terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport.
According to Empire, it is seeing growing demand for aircraft management, charter, and sales services, in addition to its work as a continuous airworthiness management organization. Around one-third of its managed fleet is now available for charter.
Recent fleet additions include an ultra-long-range Gulfstream G600 based in Dubai, a large-cabin Bombardier Challenger 604 operating out of Africa, and a large-cabin Dassault Falcon 2000 in India. An Airbus Corporate Jet is about to be added as well.
The new operating base will be within the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub at the Dubai South site. According to Empire founder and managing director Paras Dhamecha, while the company operates worldwide it views the UAE as being its foundation in terms of a regulatory framework and a network of key partners.
In addition to its UAE air operator certificate, the company holds the same approval from authorities in San Marino, and it operates aircraft in the U.S., Europe, India, Africa, and Indonesia, in addition to the Middle East. It employs 130 people to deliver the various services it provides for aircraft owners and charter clients.
According to Dhamecha, growth and expansion of wealth in the UAE and surrounding Gulf states has driven investment in “world-class” infrastructure to support business aviation.
“2024 has been an exceptional year for Empire Aviation, and we see exciting times ahead both for the Middle East and other markets, where we have several new projects in the pipeline,” he said. “We see sustained international interest in all our services from various sectors, including individuals and families, corporates, and government entities.”
Empire Aviation is also an authorized independent sales representative for Gulfstream business jets in India.

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

UAE Prosperity Drives Private Aircraft Fleet Growth at Empire Aviation

Company says increased wealth and economic growth in region is spurring infrastructure investments

Empire Aviation has added four aircraft to its fleet and is now developing a new base next to the main VIP terminal at Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport.

UAE Prosperity Drives Fleet Growth at Empire Aviation

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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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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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 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 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.

MEBAA 2024

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Airbus ACJ Series

Falcon 2000 Series

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