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

Pilatus Aircraft this week achieved a first flight with the PC-7 MKX trainer for the Royal Netherlands Air Force. The company released video of the flight, which happened on September 7 at the Swiss manufacturer’s headquarters in Stans.
The Dutch military is expected to receive the first of eight examples of the latest PC-7 model between May and September in 2027 at its Woensdrecht air base, along with flight simulators for ground-based training. The MKX is an upgrade to the two-seat, single-engine PC-7 that is currently being used for basic pilot training.
The MKX model is intended to get ab initio trainee pilots closer to jet fighter capability. It has a maximum speed of 300 knots and can climb at 2,675 feet per minute, with a G load range of +7.0 to -3.5.&nbsp;
The cockpit features the Garmin G3000 Prime avionics suite with three high-definition displays. The aircraft is powered by a 700-shp Pratt &amp; Whitney Canada PT6A-25C turboprop.
Other announced NATO customers for the PC-7 MKX include the militaries of France, which has ordered 22 aircraft and Belgium, with 18.&nbsp;

News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

Pilatus PC-7 MKX Basic Military Trainer Makes First Flight

The Dutch air force will receive eight of the two-seaters in 2027

Pilatus achieved a first flight with the latest MKX version of its PC-7 basic training aircraft, which has been ordered by the Netherlands, France and Belgium.

Pilatus PC-7 MKX Basic Trainer Makes First Flight

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