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

Payment service group Insignia and charter flight marketplace VOO Flights have jointly developed an application programming interface (API) connection to support a global distribution system for business aviation. The partnership announced on Sunday is intended to help charter brokers and operators providers offer their clients an improved booking experience.
Austria-based VOO Flights is demonstrating the software this week at MEBAA 2024. According to the company, the API interface improves the workflow for “tech brokers” to provide their clients with seamless integration and access to a wide range of charter aircraft options.
Customer requests are automatically transferred to the broker’s VOO Flights customer relationship management system (CRM), with all the details in a user-friendly format. With just a few clicks, the broker can coordinate all the flight details with the selected aircraft operator.
One of the main benefits of the new approach, according to VOO Flights, is that it eliminates the need for manual data entry, which can introduce errors. Customer requests from mobile or web-based applications are directly integrated into the CRM, helping brokers to communicate more efficiently and finalize bookings.
Insignia offers payment cards for high-net-worth clients to buy luxury goods and services. “Our commitment to exceptional customer service extends beyond our cards, as our dedicated private jet division, Insignia Jets, delivers unparalleled bespoke solutions,” said Insignia Group managing director Engin Basyurt.
VOO Flights is now seeking to expand applications for its platform beyond business-to-business use into the end-user experience. “The next logical step as a digital solution is to make our system accessible for the first time to all ‘tech brokers,’ B2C platforms, and digital end-customer solutions and offer data in an automated form,” explained the company’s CEO, Robert Plhak.
“This transition takes us from a simple B2B booking platform to the first global distribution system for business aviation, which changes everything.”

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

VOO Flights Teams With Insignia to Improve Charter Booking Process

Software is intended to streamline handling of customer flight requests

VOO Flights and Insignia say their jointly-developed API connection supports the first global distribution system for the private charter flight industry.

VOO Flights Teams With Insignia to Improve Charter Booking

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Peter Shaw-Smith

News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

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.

The Comlux BBJ767-200-ER is known as the 'SkyLady'

Aviation Horizons Hires Comlux BBJ767

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

Partners announce joint software integration initiative

Leon and UAS Seek to Streamline Trip Management

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.

Customers have the option of paying extra for sustainable aviation fuel

Victor Launches Arabic Charter Flight Booking App

Sarah Rose

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.

It is the 19th organization to join

Luxaviation Joins IBAC Industry Partner Program

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

More In Charter & Fractional

Aviation Horizons Hires Comlux BBJ767

The Comlux BBJ767-200-ER is known as the 'SkyLady'

Leon and UAS Seek to Streamline Trip Management

Partners announce joint software integration initiative

Victor Launches Arabic Charter Flight Booking App

Customers have the option of paying extra for sustainable aviation fuel

Luxaviation Joins IBAC Industry Partner Program

It is the 19th organization to join

Saudi Annual Permits Offered for Private Aircraft Owners

Some fear new approach could mask gray charter activity

Charter Broker MD Aviation Officially Launches at MEBAA

Founders based in Jordan and Egypt offer consultancy and support to growing industry

IC Leasing Places Order for Second Falcon 2000LXS

Jet will be operated by Germany-based DC Aviation

DC Aviation Adds Small and Large Jets to Charter Fleet

Company offers short- to long-haul charter trip capability in Middle East

AIN Products

SUBSCRIPTIONS

RESOURCES

ABOUT AIN