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

Aviation groups have protested at the UK government’s decision to apply a previously-proposed higher rate of air passenger duty (APD) to aircraft weighing 5.7 metric tonnes (12,540 pounds) or more from April 2027. The tax ruling announced in an annual budget statement on Wednesday is a change in policy since during a consultion process concluded in January, the government had indicated that the higher rate would apply to aircraft weighing 20 metric tonnes or higher.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, The Air Charter Association, along with the British Business &amp; General Aviation Association and the Regional &amp; Business Airports Group said they were disappointed with the widening of the scope for the new tax rate. From April 2027, the highest APD charge per passenger will range from £146.63 ($190) for a domestic charter flights up to £1,178.20 for a trip over over 5,500 miles.
The change will be implemented through the pending Finance Bill 2026. The UK government has said it will hold a further technical consultation to allow stakeholders to comment on how the rules will apply.
According to the industry groups, they have provided evidence that the duties, which also apply to airline flights at different rates, will reduce business investment into the UK and curtail improvements in the sustainability of aviation. They said that the new rates are unlikely to increase overall tax raised from the business aviation sector.
Increases of up to 50% in air passenger duty were proposed by the Labour government <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2024-10-31/uk-plans-50-tax-hike-business-jet-charter-passengers">in October 2024</a> and are set to take effect from April 2026. High rates originally introduced by the previous Conservative administration starting taking effect from April 2025.

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

Business Aviation Groups Protest UK Air Passenger Duty Change

Higher per passenger duties will apply to smaller aircraft from April 2027

Aviation groups say they are disappointed by a change in UK policy that will see the highest rates of air passenger duty apply to smaller business aircraft. 

Aviation Groups Protest UK Air Passenger Duty Change

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Amy Wilder

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

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.

Protection addresses cost volatility from day-of-flight mechanical issues

Stratos Adds Built-in AOG Coverage to Charters

Inventory edges higher but demand remains steady

Amstat Q3 Data Shows Strong Preowned Biz Aircraft Market

Kerry Lynch

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.

Pilatus had paused deliveries to the U.S. until late October

U.S. Inks Zero-tariff Aircraft Accord with Swiss, Koreans

News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

Kansas-based Turbine Training Center is an option in the Performance Vector Program.

USAIG Expands Performance Vector Program to Ag Ops

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.

More In Finance, Taxes, Insurance

Stratos Adds Built-in AOG Coverage to Charters

Protection addresses cost volatility from day-of-flight mechanical issues

Amstat Q3 Data Shows Strong Preowned Biz Aircraft Market

Inventory edges higher but demand remains steady

U.S. Inks Zero-tariff Aircraft Accord with Swiss, Koreans

Pilatus had paused deliveries to the U.S. until late October

USAIG Expands Performance Vector Program to Ag Ops

Kansas-based Turbine Training Center is an option in the Performance Vector Program.

AAMG Backs Zuri’s Plans for Hybrid-electric VTOL Aircraft

European investment group invests in Czech start-up and promises orders

Canada Budget Eliminates Luxury Tax on Aircraft, Boats

10% assessment resulted in fewer aircraft sales in the country

Argus: October Was 2nd-busiest Month Ever for Bizav Flying

In North America, October activity was 7.4% higher than September

Embraer Exec Jets Chief: Wealth, Demand Driving Expansion

Highlights include sustainable growth and future aircraft vision

AIN Products

SUBSCRIPTIONS

RESOURCES

ABOUT AIN