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

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Anra Technologies is working with prospective eVTOL aircraft operator Future Flight Global (FFG) on the joint development of data exchange systems that could be used to support increasingly autonomous flight operations. The partnership announced on January 8 will build on the cloud-based software Anra is developing to support fleet operations of cargo drones and passenger-carrying flights.
Last year, U.S.-based <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-11-20/future-flight-global-targets-multiple-evtol-aircraft-use">start-up FFG</a>&nbsp;signed a provisional agreement to buy up to 116 of Archer Aviation’s four-passenger Midnight eVTOL aircraft. It has also shown interest in operating other new aircraft, including Electra Aero’s nine-passenger hybrid-electric ultra-short takeoff and landing model.
Over the next 12 to 24 months, Anra will help FFG to create a digital twin of its planned operations so that it can simulate eVTOL flights and how the new aircraft will be integrated with airspace and ground infrastructure. The Anra team has conducted similar previous projects with drone operators in <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-08-15/anra-demonstrates-drone-inspections-new-yorks-power">New York and Estonia</a>, but the work with FFG appears to be its first involvement in passenger-carrying operations.
<h2>Safely Scaling-up Operations</h2>
“This collaboration is focused on addressing the challenges of scaling eVTOL services by running various operational scenarios and resolving key logistical and technical considerations,” FFG’s CEO, Karan Singh, told AIN. “By the time the aircraft are delivered, FFG will be equipped with a robust and thoroughly tested framework to support efficient, safe and scalable live operations.”
According to Anra’s CEO, Amit Ganjoo, its work with FFG presents the opportunity to work with a company founded on extensive experience in the business aviation sector. Singh was previously part of the leadership team with UAE-based Titan Aviation.
“This partnership brings together the best of innovation and industry experience,” Ganjoo said. “By working with an experienced business aviation partner like Future Flight Global, we aim to drive the development of an integrated ecosystem that leverages our ability to provide vertiport to vertiport services for fleet operators worldwide.”
The companies said they will now establish pilot programs in both urban and regional operating environments to validate the planned digital infrastructure in real-world conditions. They will also jointly engage with aviation regulators, as well as local communities and other stakeholders.
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