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

AMAC Aerospace’s new academy is preparing to receive its first cohort of aircraft maintenance students, with training beginning in January. The AMAC Academy at the group’s headquarters at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (LFSB) will prepare students for EASA’s Part 66 basic license for aircraft mechanical systems and turbine engines (B1) or avionics (B2).
The maintenance, repair, and overhaul group said its investment in training is important, given the industry’s growing demand for skilled staff. Students will receive theoretical training and also have opportunities to gain hands-on experience in AMAC’s Part 145-approved facility.
As part of AMAC’s focus on expanding its capabilities to support VVIP and business aircraft, the company has been preparing to support the Boeing Max 7 narrowbody, which was certified in August. According to the company, it has paid close attention to the type to understand its technical and regulatory requirements.
In addition to conducting heavy checks and maintenance on multiple Boeing 737 models, AMAC has extensive experience modifying the type. In September, it delivered an aircraft featuring a custom cabin with new seats, certified to 16G safety standards, and other new interior fittings.
AMAC also supports multiple widebody airliners in head-of-state and VVIP service, including the 777, 747, and 767 members of the Boeing Business Jets family. In late August, an Airbus ACJ350 arrived in Basel for an A check, where it was worked on alongside a BBJ777 having a C check and a BBJ747 in for a D check.
The company said aircraft owners are increasingly using the maintenance downtime to also have Starlink satellite communications equipment fitted. AMAC is a Starlink-authorized installer.
In Istanbul, Turkey, AMAC’s facility supports a wide variety of business aircraft, including Dassault Falcon. The Basel center has recently worked on multiple Gulfstream models, including the G450, G550, and G650, as well as Bombardier Challengers and Globals. The group’s JCB Aero facility in France recently expanded its maintenance, repair, and overhaul capability to include Part 145 approval to work on Boeing 737s.
AMAC has also been involved in more pre-purchase inspections for prospective aircraft buyers. In addition, the group has aircraft-on-ground teams available to support operators facing technical trouble at remote locations.

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