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

Microturbo (Booth No. 4287) is on track to perform a first test run of its so-called e-APU family of auxiliary power units for business jets by the end of the year. The company intends to achieve certification in 2011, having recently reached an agreement with the Triumph group to provide a gear box for the APUs, which are intended to deliver the additional electrical power required by new business aircraft.
The French company, which is part of the Safran group, has already developed APUs for Dassault’s Falcon jets, as well as for several military aircraft and various helicopters. The e-APU series will deliver up to 150 shp and promises low emissions and a noise signature below 70 dB. It will be able to start at up 41,000 feet and can operate up to 51,000 feet.
Microturbo is working with several manufacturers to define precise electrical and mechanical requirements for specific applications. The critical design review was completed in February.
The firm also makes small turbojet engines for unmanned aerial vehicles. Its new TR-3 powerplant is the smallest yet, weighing just under nine pounds. Series production of this engine is due to begin next year. It has a high thrust-to-weight ratio and will be able to operate at up to 30,000 feet, the company said.

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.

Microturbo to test e-APU by year-end

Microturbo (Booth No.

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.

Facility is company’s second MRO location

Pro Star Aviation Opens Pilatus Sales and Service Center

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.

Move adds capabilities to serve Airbus, Boeing operators

Broward Aviation Buys Spares, Repairs Firm Support Air

Company now has three facilities approved for maintenance on Mexican aircraft

StandardAero Van Nuys Approved by Mexico Regulator

Amy Wilder

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.

Facility offers OEM-approved propeller repairs in Asia

APS Expands with New Propeller MRO Base in Malaysia

Curt Epstein

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.

News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

The AD-mandated process takes two weeks

Yingling Completes Its 1st Falcon Dry Bay Modification

Sarah Rose

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.

NBAA Convention News 2008

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Company now has three facilities approved for maintenance on Mexican aircraft

APS Expands with New Propeller MRO Base in Malaysia

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De Havilland Canada Sells Freighter Kits to Advantage Air

Dash 8-400 cargo fleet expands

GKN Aerospace Scales Additive Production

Fan case mount rings ring true

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