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

FlyDubai has signed deals that could see up to 300 narrowbody airliners added to its fleet with prospective orders placed at the Dubai Airshow this week. On Wednesday, the low-cost carrier signed a memorandum of understanding for 75 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, plus options for another 75. That was 24 hours after it signed a similar agreement with Airbus for 150 A320neos.
The UAE-based airline indicated that it will later specify which of the 737-8, -9 or -10 models it choses for the firm orders that should follow. It is in the process of expanding its route network to new destinations in Europe and Africa, and already operates 96 of the 737 twinjets.
The deal signed on Tuesday with Boeing’s rival will make FlyDubai a new Airbus customer. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the airline’s chairman and CEO said the expanded fleet is part of its plans to grow routes out of Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport.
In another deal announced at the Dubai show, Silk Way West Airlines placed firm orders for a pair of A350F freighters. The carrier based in Azerbaijan’s capital Baku already has four of the widebody type on order.

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

FlyDubai Taps Boeing and Airbus For Narrowbody Fleet Growth

Low-cost carrier could add up to 300 Boeing 737s and A321s

In agreements signed at the Dubai Airshow, FlyDubai has said it plans to buy up to 150 Boeing 737 Max narrowbodies, but the same number of A321neos. 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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

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.

Dubai-based carrier is also focused on boosting SAF supplies 

Emirates Adds to Backlog of Airbus A350-900 Orders

The country's first private airline is trying to rebuild its scheduled route networkj 

Libya's Buraq Air Plans to Renew Fleet With A320neos

News about environmental issues relating to aircraft operations, including noise issues, emissisions, and regulations. See Fuel for biofuel.

Logistics specialist is launching a new electric air cargo operator called e-Smart Avia

Air Freight Group Orders Beta’s Alia Electric Aircraft

FlyDubai and Air Europa also signed new deals with Airbus in Dubai

Etihad Boosts Widebody Fleet with Airbus A330/350 Deal

Issues regarding financing of aircraft; aviation insurance; tax issues for aircraft operators; new companies and people in the aviation financing and insurance industries.

Boeing also announced deals with FlySafair, Air Sénégal and Gulf Air

African Carriers Expand Network with Boeing 737s

Charlotte Bailey

New and returning customers for the E-Jet family sign Embraer’s first show orders

Embraer Lands Helvetic, Air Côte d’Ivoire Orders at Dubai Airshow

Air Algérie has ordered eight of the A330neo widebodies

Algerian Flag Carrier Receives First A330-900 Aircraft

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.

Dubai Airshow 2025

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