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

NBAA is surveying its members to assess any concerns they have regarding the use of drones. Announced late last week, the <a href="https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8446680/2025-NBAA-UAS-BVLOS-Survey">survey</a>&nbsp;also seeks viewpoints on the FAA’s recent <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2025-08-05/nbaa-proposed-bvlos-rules-benefit-uas-providers">notice of proposed rulemaking</a> (NPRM) covering Part 108 beyond visual line of sight operations for uncrewed aircraft systems.
The survey will remain open until September 15 and, according to NBAA v-p for air traffic services and infrastructure Heidi Williams, member comments will help to inform the business aviation group’s response to the proposals. Industry stakeholders have until October 6 to provide input for the NPRM. The agency's proposal covers operating rules for drone package deliveries and missions including agricultural support, surveying, public safety, and for-hire flight testing.
“It is helpful to understand if members are using drones as a tool or if they have concerns with the proposed rule and drone operations,” Williams said. “Understanding the use and operational impacts will help form the basis of NBAA’s comments to the FAA on the proposed Part 108 rule. Commercial operations have been limited to either line-of-sight, or you’re operating under exemptions or waivers. The proposed rule opens the door to having routine and scalable operations, so we need to make sure it’s done right.”

News and issues relating to civil and military unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) of all kinds and sizes, including those used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), combat (unmanned combat air vehicles, or UCAVs), law enforcement, research and other applications. Of particular focus is the FAA's planned integration of UAS into the U.S. national airspace system.

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