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

European low-cost carrier Ryanair last week made a surprise move into the private charter sector, announcing that it has reconfigured the cabin of its high-density Boeing 737-700 into a 60-seat format that will be offered for corporate or sports-team bookings. The aircraft in question is the airline’s only -700 model, and the 16-year-old aircraft, originally fitted with 148 seats, was acquired last year from LAN Colombia to be used for crew training. The rest of its fleet consists of -800 models, and the airline also has the new 737 Max on order.

 


The reconfigured -700 will offer two rows of two-abreast seating with a 48-inch seat pitch that Ryanair described as “business class.” The aircraft can make flights of up to six hours in duration, allowing it to operate almost anywhere in Europe and into Russia and some parts of the Middle East.&nbsp;

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

Low-cost Ryanair Steps Up to Private Charter Role

European low-cost airline Ryanair has converted a Boeing 737-700 into a 60-seat all-business-class charter configuration.

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 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.

Europe-based group is adding a pair of Bombardier Global 8000 jets, plus a 6500

Middle East and Africa Fuel Comlux’s Charter Growth

Matt Thurber

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.

Lack of rental engines is a focus of the complaint

ATI Jet Lawsuit Alleges Hourly Service Plan Setbacks

The Hong Kong-based operator now has almost 50 business aircraft

China’s Sino Jet Expands Charter Fleet with Second G700

Jessica Reed

Program launches with HondaJet HA-420 and Bombardier Challenger 3500

Honda Aircraft Unit Backs Thrive Fractional Jet Program

Amy Wilder

Elite Jets, MaxAir keep names, add Priester co-brand

Priester Aviation Unifies Companies under One Brand

Program lets non-members compare pricing before booking

BlueSky Extends Pricing Access to Non-members

Hourly rates range from turboprops to VIP airliners

Paramount Business Jets Guide Details 2026 Charter Rates

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.

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