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 Battery Systems (ABS) has expanded its range of portable ground power units (GPUs) with the introduction of the new StartStick 20. The rugged, lightweight units are made to provide auxiliary power to aircraft operators, both on airport ramps and in remote locations.
The Arizona-based company&nbsp;first introduced the StartStick portable GPU in 2014 and has delivered more&nbsp;than 2,000 around the world. The 20 amp-hour StartStick20 weighs just 20 pounds and can support engine/APU starts, database/avionics updates, and compressor washes.
According to ABS director Paul Ross, the StartStick 20 gives operators of heavy twin-engine&nbsp;helicopters access to its GPU family. The equipment, which can conduct multiple restarts before having to be recharged, is already in service with charter and private operators of Leonardo&nbsp;AW139s.
Oceanview Helicopters said the unit&nbsp;can extend the service life of its aircraft’s main batteries by having easier access to a flexible GPU. The StartStick has a standard GPU/NATO power port connector that is compatible with a range of aircraft and is covered by a two-year warranty.
Operators can recharge the GPUs during flights using a 28-volt charging cable&nbsp;or plug them into an onboard inverter. A standard wall adaptor plugs into a hangar socket.&nbsp;The unit’s display shows constant on-condition data, including the state of charge. ABS said it protects aircraft electrical systems by protecting against&nbsp;deficient voltage levels.

News and developments about aircraft engines, including turbofan, turboprop, turboshaft and piston.

New StartStick 20 Portable GPU Supports Larger Aircraft

Aviation Battery Systems has expanded its range of products to provide flexibility and cost savings for operators of heavy twin-engine helicopters.

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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.

Improved engine production and test facilities are mainly focused on military programs

Rolls-Royce Completes $1 Billion Engine Site Upgrade

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 about environmental issues relating to aircraft operations, including noise issues, emissisions, and regulations. See Fuel for biofuel.

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.

The first hybrid-electric flights above 30,000 feet, as well as the first across the North Atlantic, GE says.

GE Aerospace and Beta Technologies Cross Atlantic in Hybrid-electric Saab 340B Commuter Aircraft

Australian start-up planned to convert Beechcraft Bonanza and 1900D aircraft

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News and issues regarding all manner of civil and military rotorcraft and their powerplants, including helicopters, tilt rotors and unmanned air vehicles.

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.

Turboshaft has flown more than 600 hours after first flight in March 2023

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News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

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.

Deadline of Dec. 31, 2030 may have to be moved if a suitable fuel isn't available

FAA’s Rocheleau Admits Unleaded Avgas Timeline May Slip

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Proposal promises accelerated engine innovation

Sikorsky and Safran Pledge Increased Collaboration 

GE and Magellan sign F414 support agreement

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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.

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