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

Abu Dhabi Airports is teaming with Skyports to develop a network of vertiports to support eVTOL aircraft operations. The companies announced their partnership last week, confirming that they have already started construction at Zayed International Airport (OMAA) and Al Bateen Executive Airport (OMAD) and expect to have <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-02-13/skyports-reveals-proposed-design-abu-dhabi-vertiports">these facilities</a> ready in the first quarter of 2026.
Last year, the Abu Dhabi government gave its blessing for eVTOL air taxi services to be launched by rival manufacturers <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-04-25/abu-dhabi-backs-evtol-air-taxi-services-archer-and-joby">Archer and Joby</a>. Earlier this month, local charter operator Falcon Aviation Services announced an order for 50 of <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-11-04/falcon-aviation-services-orders-50-autoflight-aircraft">AutoFlight’s V2000EM</a> eVTOL models, including 35 passenger and 15 cargo versions.
Once construction is complete, Skyports and Abu Dhabi Airports intend to jointly operate the vertiports, with services including passenger handling, security, cargo operations, and supporting commercial operators. The agreement did not state where other vertiports might be located in the emirate. Other sites owned by Abu Dhabi Airports include Al Ain International Airport (OMAL), Dalma Airport&nbsp;(OMDL), and Sir Bani Yas Airport (OMBY).
UK-based Skyports is also developing vertiports in <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-01-15/skyports-first-uae-vertiport-earns-technical-design-approval">neighboring Dubai</a> through a partnership with Joby. In July, its Skyports Middle East division signed a similar agreement with <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-07-08/skyports-expands-uae-vertiport-plans-ajman-partnership">Ajman Transport Authority</a>, extending its presence in the UAE.

New developments at airports including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

Abu Dhabi Airports and Skyports Confirm Vertiport Plans 

First two facilities being built for eVTOL air taxis will be ready in the first quarter of 2026

Abu Dhabi Airports and Skyports aim to start operating the first two sites in a planned eVTOL air taxi network of vertiports from early next year.

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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

News and information about crew, passenger, aircraft and airport security issues.

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.

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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.

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.

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Curt Epstein

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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.

News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

Dubai Airshow 2025

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