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

United Airlines has committed to an unspecified investment in JetZero’s plan to develop a blended-wing-body aircraft. On April 24, the carrier said the agreement reached with the U.S. start-up “includes a path” to place orders for 100 of the 250-seat Z4 airliners, with options for another 100 units.
The airline did not elaborate on other aspects of the investment, but it noted that the conditional purchase agreement is contingent on JetZero achieving several program milestones, including a first flight with a full-scale demonstrator aircraft in 2027. The agreement follows a partnership commitment from <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-03-05/delta-and-jetzero-partner-blended-wing-body-airliners">Delta Air Lines</a> announced in early March.
According to JetZero, the drag-reducing architecture for the Z4, which generates lift across the entire wingspan, is expected to result in a 50% reduction in fuel burn per passenger mile compared to existing airliners of a similar size. Pratt &amp; Whitney and Collins Aerospace will provide the main elements for the propulsion system, which will be based on a PW2040 turbofan.
The projected range is up to 5,000 nm, and JetZero stated that the Z4 will be able to operate from existing airport infrastructure. According to the company, a flight from New York to Palma de Mallorca in Spain would use up to 45% less fuel compared to the twin-aisle widebodies currently deployed on the route.
JetZero aims to provide airlines with more flexible seating options and increased space for their passengers. The main board door will be wider than those in current airliners, which the company said will lead to multiple aisles and passenger cabin bays.
“If successful, JetZero has the potential to evolve our core mainline business by developing aircraft with a bigger, more comfortable cabin experience for our customers while increasing fuel efficiency across our network,” said Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures.

News about commercial airlines, including regulations, aircraft orders, safety, acquisitions, and mergers.

United Airlines Commits to JetZero's Z4 Blended-wing-body  Airliner

Carrier could buy up to 200 of the 250-seat Z4 airliner

United announced that part of an investment in JetZero's plans for a blended wing body airliner includes a provisional order commitment for up to 200 units.

United Commits to JetZero's Blended-wing-body Airliner

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Kaleyesus Bekele

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 and issues relating to international air transport and cargo carriers, national airlines and regional airlines, including aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

European aerospace group produces narrowbodies in both Canada and the U.S.

Airbus Boosts A220 Output with Mirabel Delivery Center 

Hanneke Weitering

Archer’s Launch Edition program marks its second customer

Ethiopian Airlines Plans To Operate Archer’s Midnight eVTOL Air Taxi

Operator plans scheduled services connecting coastal communities

Scottish Seaplane Operator Plans to Add Electric Noemi to Its Fleet

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

Long-haul airline has switched allegiance from Vertical Aerospace to Joby Aviation 

Virgin Atlantic Teams with Joby for UK eVTOL Air Taxi Network

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.

98% of airline passengers surveyed said they would consider eVTOL air taxi services

Honeywell Finds Strong Consumer Support for eVTOL Flights

News and developments about aircraft engines, including turbofan, turboprop, turboshaft and piston.

More In Airlines

Airbus Boosts A220 Output with Mirabel Delivery Center

European aerospace group produces narrowbodies in both Canada and the U.S.

Ethiopian Airlines Plans To Operate Archer’s Midnight eVTOL Air Taxi

Archer’s Launch Edition program marks its second customer

Scottish Seaplane Operator Plans to Add Electric Noemi to Its Fleet

Operator plans scheduled services connecting coastal communities

Virgin Atlantic Teams with Joby for UK eVTOL Air Taxi Network

Long-haul airline has switched allegiance from Vertical Aerospace to Joby Aviation

Honeywell Finds Strong Consumer Support for eVTOL Flights

98% of airline passengers surveyed said they would consider eVTOL air taxi services

Evia Aero Confirms Order For Hydrogen-powered Islander Aircraft

Britten-Norman is expected to deliver the first of 15 aircraft to the German airline in 2027

SkedFlex FP Mobile App Brings Flexible Flight Planning

New app offers anytime, anywhere access

Air New Zealand Orders Beta Alia CX300 Demonstrator Aircraft

It will use the aircraft for 'familiarization exercises' in 2025

AIN Products

SUBSCRIPTIONS

RESOURCES

ABOUT AIN