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

Business aircraft management and charter group Empire Aviation is building a new headquarters at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in the Dubai South complex. The UAE-based group said the facility will be ready to open during the second half of 2026, with the investment being made to support its growing fleet of managed jets.
Empire Aviation, which was founded in 2007, operates 25 privately-owned aircraft and around one third of these are available for charter by third parties. The fleet mix includes a Gulfstream G700s, G600s, and G280s, plus several Global XRS models, the Airbus Corporate Jet and the Embraer Legacy 650.
In addition to its UAE air operator certificate, the company also holds a certificate issued by the aviation regulator in San Marino, giving it access to provide flights beyond the Middle East—in Europe, the U.S., India, Africa and Indonesia. It also acts as authorized independent sales representative for Gulfstream Aerospace in India.
In addition to managing aircraft, Empire handles aircraft sales and charter bookings, as well as providing CAMO management services to other aircraft owners and operators. It has a team of 130 specialists on its payroll.
“We see sustained international interest in all our services from various sectors, including individuals and families, corporates, and government entities,” said Paras Dhamecha, founder and managing director of Empire Aviation. “Our aim is to maximise the value and benefits of private aviation for owners, while optimising the owner’s investment in the aircraft asset and protecting its value, through our expertise in aircraft management.”
According to Dhamecha, business aviation growth is reflected in the large investments now being made in new infrastructure in key locations such as the UAE and other Middle East states. He said there is new interest in the benefits of aircraft ownership and charter.

News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

Empire Aviation Builds Dubai HQ to Meet Growing Private Jet Demand

Managed fleet now includes 25 business aircraft, of which one third can be chartered

Empire Aviation's new headquarters in Dubai's Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub will help it meet rising demand for aircraft management and charter services.

Empire Builds Dubai HQ to Meet Growing Private Jet Demand

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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 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.

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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.

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News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

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