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

The Vertical Flight Society (VFS) will hold its 77th Annual Forum &amp; Technology Display as a virtual event from May 10 to 14. The trade show had been planned as a hybrid in-person/virtual event to be staged in West Palm Beach, Florida, from May 11 to 13.

 


Announcing the change of plan on January 25, the VFS said it resulted from ongoing concern over high rates of Covid-19 infection. The expanded <a href="https://vtol.org/forum">online program</a> is intended to allow more time for more technical presentations and to accommodate participation by attendees based in other time zones, such as Europe.

 


During 2020, the VFS grew its membership by 15 percent to include a total of 137 companies. Last year, 36 new corporate members joined the U.S.-based group, which has doubled its membership base over the past five years.

 


In addition to focusing on the rotorcraft sector, the VFS has been an energetic advocate for the development of new eVTOL aircraft and the wider advanced air mobility (AAM) concept. This week, the group is holding its 8th Annual Electric VTOL Symposium.

 


Separately, the U.S. Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command has enlisted the support of the VFS and the Army Research Laboratory to encourage education and skills development to support eVTOL and AAM technology. The VFS is already closely involved in the U.S. Air Force’s Agility Prime initiative in the same sector.

News and issues regarding all manner of civil and military rotorcraft and their powerplants, including helicopters, tilt rotors and unmanned air vehicles.

Vertical Flight Society Moves Annual Show Online

The Vertical Flight Society saw its membership rise during 2020 and has announced a new partnership with the U.S. Army to support skills training. 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Charlotte Bailey

Flights with two scaled technology demonstrators will inform potential future iterations 

Singaporean eVTOL Conducts Test Campaign In Germany 

Matt Thurber

New developments and products in avionics, specifically about aircraft electronics in the cockpit.

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.

Lightweight white-phosphor NVG have a 94-degree field of view

FAA Approves TSO for ASU Panoramic Night-vision Goggles

Hanneke Weitering

Proposed rule addresses pilot awareness of control limits

FAA Floats Special Conditions for Skyryse Fly-by-wire R66

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.

European Helicopter Association and Vertical Aviation International extended their alliance 

Vertical Lift Groups Extend Trade Show Partnership

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.

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FAA Floats Special Conditions for Skyryse Fly-by-wire R66

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European Helicopter Association and Vertical Aviation International extended their alliance

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Originally developed for the U.S. military, X2 technology is in search of a new customer.

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Joins fleet of longtime operator of Bell 206s and 412s

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Distributor will use the helicopter to introduce customers to its capabilities

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