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

Airbus Helicopters BK117, EC145, and H145 series

Charles Alcock

Germany’s DLR aerospace research agency and air rescue operator ADAC Luftrettung have completed a study on the use of a bio-kerosene for emergency medical flights. In a report published last week, the partners said that 1,800 hours of flight trials using a pair of ADAC’s helicopters showed a significant reduction in ultrafine particles (UFPs), also referred to as soot.
During the trials, ADAC’s Airbus EC145s were run on a fuel mix that included 38% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) produced from recycled vegetable or animal fats, including used cooking oil. Researchers from DLR’s Institute of Combustion Technology conducted six ground-based measurement exercises, focused on measuring emissions of UFPs and also carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides.
According to the report, during idle operations before takeoff when rotor speeds are high, researchers recorded a 44% reduction in UFPs. At engine power levels set for cruise, the particle emissions were 33% lower than if the aircraft had operated on conventional jet-A.
“Following these promising first results, we aim to expand our research and development activities in this field and increase the SAF content,” said ADAC Luftrettung managing director Frédéric Bruder. “Our long-term goal is to significantly advance the decarbonization of aviation, including in the emergency services sector.”

News and developments about aviation fuel, including jet fuel, aviation gasoline, and biofuel.

Helicopter Trials with Sustainable Aviation Fuel Show Lower Soot Emissions

Emergency medical operator ADAC partnered with aerospace research group DLR

Operating ADAC’s air ambulance helicopters on a 38% blend of sustainable aviation fuel cut soot emissions by up to 44% in trials conducted with Germany’s DLR.

Helicopter SAF Trials Show Reduced Soot Emissions

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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

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The most ambitious mandated targets for SAF usage are in the European Union 

Argus Charts Sustainable Aviation Fuel Usage Worldwide

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

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News about commercial airlines, including regulations, aircraft orders, safety, acquisitions, and mergers.

Early commitments to new program come from business aircraft operators Comlux and Luxaviation

Airbus Customers Get Easier Access to SAF Book-and-claim

Amy Wilder

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

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.

Ten-year deal brings fuel operations changes  

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Issues regarding financing of aircraft; aviation insurance; tax issues for aircraft operators; new companies and people in the aviation financing and insurance industries.

UK government consultation on revenue certainty mechanism

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Successful HVO and SAF production tests pave way for energy transition

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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.

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BK117/EC145/H145

Airbus Helicopters

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