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 Gulf region’s sustained uptick in business aviation activity is driving strong demand for qualified aviation personnel, according to recruitment specialist Zenon. The UK-based company’s CEO, Andrew Middleton, said an influx of start-up companies in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia urgently need for experienced post holders and engineers for a mix of short- and long-term contract work.
Zenon, which helps to fill both permanent and contract positions across the aviation industry, said it has seen the number of jobs available in the Gulf increase by 24% since January. Some of the strongest demand is coming from helicopter operators, the advanced air mobility sector, training providers, and maintenance companies.
“We have been actively recruiting in the Middle East since 2006, initially in business aviation, then widening out to support commercial airlines and aerospace,” Middleton said. “It has become a very employee-driven market, with demand for personnel outweighing supply. We look forward to helping address that balance.”
Zenon has stepped up its digital marketing efforts to find suitable prospects to fill positions in the Middle East. It is participating in the MEBAA show this week to boost its recruitment efforts.
“We see flight crew transitioning to on-demand aviation, where salaries and perks are typically competitive,” Middleton said. “Likewise, Middle East airlines are paying even more and improving benefits to keep good pilots and engineers, stopping them from moving to Asia, especially India, which is gearing up for significant pilot demand.”

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

Strong Gulf Business Aviation Growth Drives Skilled Staff Recruitment

Pilots, aviation post holders and engineers are in demand

Specialist recruiter Zenon is stepping up its efforts to find skilled aviation personnel to meet the needs of growing companies in the Gulf states.

Strong Gulf Bizav Growth Drives Skilled Staff Recruitment

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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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.

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.

Responses suggest aviation maintenance is outstripping automotive tech careers

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Four-week training program covered inspections and maintenance

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News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

FAA also approves Joby's voluntary safety management system

Joby's Flight Academy Wins FAA Approval

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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.

A letter from AIN founder and chair emeritus

AIN Year-end Report 2024

Jessica Reed

News and issues relating to the aerospace industry that are related to the science, engineering and business of flight in space involving civil, industrial and military applications, and similar topics related to flight in the atmosphere of the Earth that are not covered more directly by other AINonline subject channels. In other words, both astronautical and aeronautical subjects, except for those aeronautical topics that are specifically covered elsewhere on this website.

 New directions for Boeing, Wheels Up, EASA, AOPA, and many others

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Industry/FAA joint report was released and FAA has updated guidance and training

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News and issues regarding all manner of civil and military rotorcraft and their powerplants, including helicopters, tilt rotors and unmanned air vehicles.

MEBAA 2024

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