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

Lockheed Martin Ventures (LMV) has made an undisclosed investment in eSTOL aircraft developer Electra through a Series A funding round. The capital contributed by the venture capital arm of the U.S. defense and aerospace giant will support the Virginia-based start-up’s plans to begin flight testing a technology demonstrator this year.
Using blown-lift technology, the hybrid-electric, fixed-wing design features eight sets of propellers and is expected to be able to operate from surfaces that are no more than 300 feet long and 100 feet wide. In addition to its patent-pending distributed electrical propulsion system, the aircraft will have a small turbine-powered generator to recharge batteries during flights to give the flexibility of being able to operate into sites where recharging infrastructure is not available. The as-yet-unnamed model will carry seven to nine passengers or up to 1,800 pounds of cargo on sectors of up to 500 miles.
“Electra’s technical approach to sustainable aviation is differentiated, and we are excited to see this concept mature,” said LMV vice president and general manager Chris Moran. “We invested in Electra because of its focus on hybrid-electric technology. Hybrid-electric aircraft have the potential to deliver operational and environmental advantages over other aircraft, including increased payload and range without gambling on battery improvements.”
Last year, Electra signed provisional sales agreements with prospective operators Flapper and Flyv. It reported that work has begun with the FAA to certify the aircraft under existing Part 23 rules, and the company has received support from NASA and the U.S. Air Force.

Charles Alcock

Electra's eSTOL aircraft is expected to be able to takeoff and land on surfaces no more than 300 feet long and 100 feet wide. (Image: Electra)

Lockheed Martin Backs Hybrid-electric eSTOL Aircraft Developer Electra

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