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

Uncrewed aircraft operator Areion UAS this week agreed to proceed with plans to buy at least 40 of Dufour Aerospace’s Aero2 hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft. The agreement, announced on September 30 during the UP Summit event in Bentonville, Arkansas, marks the renewal of an existing partnership between the Swiss manufacturer and U.S.-based Spright, which was acquired by Areion’s parent company Legionair Tactical Logistics on September 1.
The deal, which was originally <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/news-article/2022-11-04/medical-delivery-group-signs-us-launch-operator-aero2-drone">signed by Spright</a> in November 2022, also covers options for up to 100 more of the Aero2 tiltwing aircraft, which has an 88-pound payload and range of range of around 217 nm. Areion will now work on business development activities with the Dufour team.
According to Dufour’s CEO Sascha Hardegger, the company is about to start series production of the Aero2 model and is on track to start commercial deliveries in 2026. “We believe Areion is the right partner to expand our footprint in the U.S.,” he commented.
According to Areion managing director Tyler Kennedy, <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-08-29/dufour-flies-production-ready-aero2-evtol-utility-aircraft">the Aero2</a>, which was on display at the UP Summit, will serve as a multi-role platform in the company’s fleet. He told AIN that Legionair’s recent purchase of Spright was not related to the October 2023 Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by helicopter operator <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2023-10-24/air-methods-files-bankruptcy-protection">Air Methods</a>, of which Spright was formally a subsidiary. Spright subsequently started trading under the name Areion.
Dufour is also working on plans for a larger, longer-range tiltwing aircraft called <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/news-article/2021-08-16/dufour-reveals-updated-design-aero3-tiltwing-evtol-aircraft">the Aero3</a>. The piloted aircraft is being designed for missions including passenger flights and emergency medical support.&nbsp;

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.

Drone Operator Areion Confirms Aero2 VTOL Order with Dufour Aerospace

Areion is the new name for Spright, which was formerly part of helicopter operator Air Methods

Areion UAS has confirmed plans to add up to 140 of Dufour's hybrid-electric Aero2 VTOL aircraft to its drone fleet, with deliveries set to begin in 2026.

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News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

Pilot " is “deeply remorseful for his mistake”

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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.

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

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Swiss company has completed an initial round of test flights with the hybrid-electric tiltwing

Dufour Set To Ship Aero2 Drones to Customers for Real-world Feedback

Military and challenging commercial logistics applications are priorities

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News about environmental issues relating to aircraft operations, including noise issues, emissisions, and regulations. See Fuel for biofuel.

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