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

Even in the era of ultra-high-technology security screening, there is still a place for traditional aircrew “wings,” name badges and other uniform insignia. Perhaps even more so. In fact, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires that all airline pilots and cabin attendants be clearly identified by insignia, such as pilot wings and name and cap badges decorated with a clear corporate identity. 
According to Larry Johnson, sales and marketing v-p of specialist supplier Johnson’s Jewelry, flight crews find that approach can make it easier for them to move around airports anywhere in the world. He has also seen increasing demand from corporate aircraft crews anxious to have a clear way to identify their right to be airside at airports. Despite the current economic downturn, Johnson Jewelry’s sales of wings and badges have been increasing, especially among international operators. According to Johnson, “We treat these like police badges and prefer to trade only with operators and individuals we can vet [for security purposes].” 
The Dayton, Ohio-based, family-run business is using digital technology to provide a secure representation of a company’s logo and a high-quality finished product that will not degrade in appearance over time. After Johnson’s receives a digital example of an operator’s logo and any other artwork required, it replicates it using its patented Color-Imaging process to precisely match corporate colors. The company can produce insignia and jewelry in as little as two weeks and can economically handle orders for as few as 10 items. By contrast, some other suppliers insist on a minimum order of 1,000 units.
Most of Johnson’s products are made from brass that is plated with gold, silver or pewter. It also offers its own J-Coat protective coating for badges to guard against the damage that can be done by, for example, salt water in the atmosphere. The company also produces epaulettes, lapel pins, uniform buttons, tie tacks, ties and earrings. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Traditional pilot wings now have a security role

Even in the era of ultra-high-technology security screening, there is still a place for traditional aircrew “wings,” name badges and other uniform insignia

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