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

Business aviation document management specialist Web Manuals has introduced software to help users work with data and records in XML format. The XML Editor feature of its platform allows aviation companies to import and manage native XML documents so that they can review, distribute, and control OEM manuals alongside existing web documents and PDF files.
Multiple aircraft manufacturers provide operators with maintenance and technical manuals in XML format, a structured data language that follows strict schemas and manufacturer-specific standards. Now that these can be managed in the Web Manuals platform, aircraft operators and support companies will no longer have to maintain separate systems for some manuals, or manually convert content into editable formats before uploading.
“Our new XML function will eliminate the need for multiple documentation tools and fragmented workflows,” explained Web Manuals chief product officer Richard Sandström. “We are helping operators improve efficiency, maintain consistency, and simplify compliance management.”
The Swedish company now supports more than 190 aircraft operators worldwide and has been active in the business aviation sector for six years. In May 2025, it introduced its <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2025-05-07/ai-tools-promise-efficiency-leap-business-aviation">Amelia Co-Author</a> editing tool using artificial intelligence.

News and issues about aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), covering all segments of the aviation industry; and modifications for aircraft and engines. Subjects include product support of aircraft, engines and avionics, MRO company mergers, acquisitions, announcements and personnel, Airworthiness Directives, Supplemental Type Certificate approvals and other topics.

Web Manuals Rolls Out Management Tool for Aviation XML Documents

New software helps aircraft operators avoid reformatting documents

Aircraft operators can now import and manage native XML documents to review, distribute, and control manuals alongside web documents and PDF files.

Web Manuals Rolls Out XML Document Management Tool

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Matt Thurber

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.

Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

Fuselage rail system and radome approvals expand the company’s offerings

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Curt Epstein

The 250,000-sq-ft addition will be operational in 2028

Bombardier’s Singapore Maintenance Facility To Expand

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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.

In this article

Web Manuals

More In Maintenance and Modifications

Avcon Adds Two Special-mission STCs for Challengers

Fuselage rail system and radome approvals expand the company’s offerings

Bombardier’s Singapore Maintenance Facility To Expand

The 250,000-sq-ft addition will be operational in 2028

West Star Aviation Rises To Meet Soaring AOG Demand

The company saw record demand for AOG services last month

California MRO Expands to Colorado with Company Buy

It aims to create national footprint

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