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

The UK government will extend the current night noise limits for aircraft movements at London’s Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted airports using its quota count system.
Following a consultation conducted last year, the Department for Transport has ruled that a so-called <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6752c47114973821ce2a6c90/decision-night-flight-restrictions-heathrow-gatwick-stansted-from-oct-25.pdf">“bridging” arrangement</a> will apply for three years from October 2025 to allow more time for the Aviation Night Noise Effects study to be completed as the basis for longer-term arrangements.
At Stansted Airport (EGSS), which attracts significant numbers of business aircraft to a well-established enclave of FBOs, existing government limits will apply between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., with varying levels of quota count limits between the winter and summer seasons. Business aviation service providers and the British Business and General Aviation Association have previously complained that <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2024-03-06/uk-considers-new-night-noise-limits-london-airports">these limits</a> impede the slot flexibility needed for ad hoc operations to be conducted alongside scheduled airline traffic.
Night quota limits at Heathrow Airport (EGLL), where slot restrictions effectively block business aviation traffic, remain unchanged and will apply between 11:30 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. There are also no changes to the limits at Gatwick Airport (EGKK), with the same restricted night hours remaining in place for another three years.
<h2>Expansion Decisions Pending</h2>
Meanwhile, the UK’s Labour government is poised to make long-deferred, highly contentious decisions over plans for significant capacity expansion at Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton (EGGW) airports. The administration, which took office in July 2024, is under intense pressure to stimulate economic growth while at the same time meeting its commitments to achieve the country’s net-zero carbon objectives.
At Heathrow, a decision over whether to build a third runway has been in political limbo for at least 15 years. Having been subjected to protracted consultations and studies, the ambitious plan is now back with government ministers who are being urged to provide clarity for the airport’s new majority owner, the Saudi investment group Ardian.
Gatwick’s owners plan to extend an existing emergency runway to make it available for more flights and are expecting an approval decision by February 27. Luton Airport is awaiting an April 3 deadline for a final decision on its proposals to increase passenger traffic by 40%.
Both Stansted and London City Airport (EGLC) have already been given the go-ahead to increase passenger numbers. All of the pending airport expansion plans are based on airline demands for increased capacity, with the impact on business aviation being very much a peripheral consideration.

New developments at airports including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

UK Government Extends London Airport Night Noise Limits

Long-delayed decisions on capacity expansion for Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton are expected soon

With decisions on expansion for Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton airports anticipated soon, existing night noise limits are being extended for three years. 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

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.

Unexpected blizzard strikes locations without snow handling options

Record Snowfall Leaves More Gulf Coast Airports Reeling

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New developments at FBOs including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

Hubs at Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam stand out for activity

Bizjet Movements Rise 24% in Saudi Arabia

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News and issues relating to the aerospace industry that are related to the science, engineering and business of flight in space involving civil, industrial and military applications, and similar topics related to flight in the atmosphere of the Earth that are not covered more directly by other AINonline subject channels. In other words, both astronautical and aeronautical subjects, except for those aeronautical topics that are specifically covered elsewhere on this website.

Texas, Louisiana airports issuing unprecedented closures due to winter weather

Airports Along U.S. Gulf Coast Close Amid Winter Storm

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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.

Vertiport at Dubai International Airport will support Joby's eVTOL air taxi services

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EHang Launches eVTOL Infrastructure Partnerships in China

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.

Helsinki city officials want to build housing on the historic site and nature reserve

Campaigners Push To Reopen Helsinki's Malmi Airport

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

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