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

UK start-up Fly Above Group is preparing to launch private charter services with an Embraer Phenom 100 light jet. The company, which will trade under the brand Above, will base the aircraft at the XLR Executive Jet Services FBO at Birmingham International Airport (EGBB).&nbsp;The Phenom, previously owned by an operator based in Germany, has club-four seating in the cabin.
Above will operate under the air operator certificate it has acquired with the purchase of Bournemouth-based Alto Aerospace. Alto operates a managed fleet including Beechcraft King Air 200, Cessna 421 Golden Eagle, and Diamond DA-42 models that it uses for private charter flights and special missions.
Subject to approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, Above aims to start flying the Phenom in early 2026. The company said the Phenom is optimal for flights of up to 2.5 hours.
The company has financial backing from its founder, Vince Essex, and local business partners eager to introduce more entry-level-jet charter capacity to the UK’s G-register. Essex formerly was the chief commercial operator at Cello Aviation, which operated BAe 146s and Boeing 737s for charter services out of EGBB between 2010 and 2018. He also has experience running aircraft ground support and concierge services through his Arvin Group venture.

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.

UK Start-up Above Launches Charter Service with Embraer Phenom 100

Birmingham-based operator has acquired Alto Aerospace's AOC

Above's investors want to increase the availability of G-registered entry-level jets in the UK charter market with an Embraer Phenom 100 based in Birmingham.

UK Start-up Above Launches Phenom Charter Services

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Amy Wilder

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.

Delaware facility to install advanced cabin, auxilliary fuel systems

Aloft Secures Second Max 8 Interior Project This Year

Matt Thurber

Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

Deal expands market for satcom equipment and services in France and Middle East 

Gogo SD Government Signs Eclipse as Authorized Reseller

Luxury features will be unveiled in an interior design next year

Elie Saab Designing Cabin for Bombardier Global 8000

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

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.

First 777-300ER flight with Starlink high-speed connectivity departs November 23

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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.

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