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

French business aviation leaders are pressing their government for a U-turn to reverse high passenger duties imposed on private charter flights in March. According to Charles Aguettant, president of EBAA-France, France's Prime Minister François Bayrou has acknowledged the so-called “solidarity tax” was ill-conceived, sparking hope that the industry group can persuade the administration to accept alternative proposals.
With France’s government needing to close a €40 billion deficit in its 2026 budget, whether the administration will reverse its policy of targeting wealthy travelers remains to be seen. However, during this week’s EBACE show in Geneva, Aguettant told AIN that complexities around requirements for operators flying from French airports to collect the duty have resulted in a fiscal yield of just €5 million to €10 million—well short of the planned €100 million to be raised—but costing operators customers deterred by the bloated costs of charter flights.
France’s 2026 budget is due to be settled in September or October, and EBAA-France aims to hold direct talks with senior government figures by then. The group has already lobbied the departments of economy, budget, and transportation.
The news from France was part of an update provided during an EBACE 2025 conference session on taxation challenges facing business aviation. This included details of luxury taxes being applied in Spain and Italy.

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

French Business Aviation Group Presses for Reversal of Private Charter Tax

Solidarity tax has added thousands of euros to the cost of some trips

According to EBAA-France, the country's tax on private charter flights is generating less revenue than expected for the government.

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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.

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