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

Guatemala and El Salvador have introduced mandates requiring aircraft to be equipped with ADS-B Out systems to fly in specified airspace. The new requirements took effect in the Central American countries on December 31 and January 1, respectively.
According to UAS International Trip Support, Guatemala and El Salvador are so far the only jurisdictions in the MHCC/Central America FIR to introduce ADS-B Out mandates. The requirement still does not apply in Belize, Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Use of ADS-B Out systems is intended to make operations safer by more accurately tracking aircraft locations. This can be especially helpful in areas with limited radar cover.
ADS-B requirements apply to aircraft operating IFR flights with a maximum takeoff weight of 12,566 pounds or greater, and/or a maximum true airspeed in excess of 250 knots. Individual states have imposed mandates covering different flight levels and routings.
Exemption can be secured for aircraft with certificates of airworthiness issued before June 7, 1995, or which will cease operations by October 31, 2025. They can also be issued for flights being conducted purely for maintenance work or as part of an export process.

News, issues, personnel, equipment and developments about air traffic management.

Guatemala and El Salvador Introduce ADS-B Out Mandates For Aircraft 

Safety requirements took effect for most aircraft from the start of 2025

Central American states Guatemala and El Salvador have become the latest to implement requirements to be equipped with ADS-B Out capability to track locations.

Guatemala and El Salvador Introduce ADS-B Out Mandates

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Gordon Gilbert

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.

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.

FCC directed to auction off spectrum in upper C-band

FCC’s Upper C-band Proposal Seeks Aviation Input

David Hughes

A4A backing bill to shield the FAA from another shutdown

Possible Second Shutdown Looms Large over ATC Overhaul

Kerry Lynch

FAA is looking to replace or re-architect STARS and ERAM

FAA Solicits Potential Vendors for ATC Replacements

DOT Secretary confident that he will get necessary funding

Duffy: FAA Still Needs $20B for ATC Modernization

FAA is eyeing a four-layer system

FAA’s Bedford: ATC Apps Key to Innovating Faster 

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 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.

Staffing trigger events eased after federal government reopened

FAA Lifts ATC Restrictions, General Aviation Bans

Chad Trautvetter

NBAA hopes traffic will be back to normal before Thanksgiving travel

U.S. Govt Reopens, but ATC Delays Still Linger

New developments at airports including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

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