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

More than 1,500 Bombardier business aircraft are now supported by the manufacturer’s Smart Services program, which launched 40 years ago. Marking the anniversary at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, Bombardier said these jets have collectively logged more than 11 million flight hours.
Three years ago, Bombardier introduced the <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2023-10-03/bombardier-expands-smart-services-cost-hour-program">Smart Services Elite</a> option, which provides expanded coverage for component exchanges, avionics, tires, brakes, and corrosion protection. The same scheduled and unscheduled support is available to military operators through the Smart Services Defense offering.
For three successive years, Bombardier has held the top ranking in the annual AIN aircraft <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2026-08-03/ain-product-support-survey-2026-aircraft">Product Support Survey</a>. Smart Services was launched in 1986 under the name Smart Parts as one of the business aviation sector’s first cost-per-hour maintenance programs.
“For 40 years, Smart Services has helped redefine what customers expect from aircraft support by delivering predictable maintenance costs and a premium ownership experience,” commented Bill Molloy, Bombardier’s vice president for aftermarket sales, defense, and parts. “As we celebrate this milestone, we are not only reflecting on four decades of innovation and customer collaboration; we are looking ahead to the next 40 years of support excellence. Our customers’ needs continue to evolve, and we remain committed to expanding our capabilities and delivering increasingly comprehensive support solutions that provide confidence for years to come.”

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.

Bombardier Smart Services Support For Business Aircraft Turns 40

Anniversary was marked at the NBAA-BACE show with customer event

Bombardier has enhanced its Smart Services product support offering since it was launched in 1986 and now more than 1,500 of its jets are covered.

Bombardier Smart Services Support Program Turns 40

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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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Curt Epstein

The battery ship set is now available for the Gulfstream GIV, G450, GV, and G550

True Blue’s Li-ion Battery STCed for Legacy Gulfstreams

Hanneke Weitering

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.

Newfoundland shop taps U.S. sales partners to court air-medical operators

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News and developments about aviation fuel, including jet fuel, aviation gasoline, and biofuel.

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

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