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

Aura Aero’s Integral E electric two-seat aircraft has now completed 15 test flights since the French start-up started the campaign on December 3. On April 16, the company released images of the prototype aerobatic model achieving its first backflip maneuver.
Toulouse-based Aura Aero is aiming to complete EASA type certification and start deliveries of the Integral E by the end of 2026. It recently delivered the first example of the Integral R light aircraft, powered by a Lycoming piston engine, and it is also producing an Integral S tail-dragger version, for which <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2025-04-10/aura-aero-appoints-dealers-light-aircraft-family">deliveries should begin</a>&nbsp;by the end of this year. The aircraft are intended for applications including aerobatics, flight training, private transportation, and glider towing.
According to the manufacturer, the Integral E, which is powered by Safran’s EngineUs electric motor, will have a flight endurance of more than 60 minutes and be able to compete recharging in 30 minutes. It has said that the electric aircraft should deliver flight hour operating costs to schools and clubs that are around half of current piston-powered models.
Aura Aero is also developing a 19-seat hybrid-electric regional airliner called the ERA. It intends to offer this in an alternative corporate/private configuration with fewer seats.

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.

Aura Aero’s Integral E Electric Aerobatics Aircraft Performs First Backflip

The electric-powered two-seater has made 15 flights since early December 2024

Aura Aero expects to complete type certification of its electric Integral E model in 2026, with flying clubs promised an hour of flight time on each charge.

Aura Aero’s Integral E Electric Aerobatics Model Achieves First Backflip

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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.

G700 has already contributed 80 speed records to Gulfstream’s fleetwide 700 total

G700 Flight Brings Gulfstream Fleet to 700th Speed Record 

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News and developments about aircraft engines, including turbofan, turboprop, turboshaft and piston.

News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

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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.

In this article

Aura Aero

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