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

The FAA has progressed the G-2 issue paper covering the process for approving Reliable Robotics’ plans to convert aircraft for remote operations to Stage 3. Announcing the move last week, the California&nbsp;company’s CEO, Robert Rose, said it&nbsp;“represents a crucial step in coming to an agreement with the FAA as to how our navigation and autoflight system will meet the performance-based safety objectives contained in 14 CFR Part 23 Amendment 64."
The G-2 issue paper is part of the process through which Reliable Robotics aims&nbsp;to secure a supplemental type certificate to convert Textron’s Cessna Caravan aircraft to operate with its autopilot engaged in all phases of flight, including taxi, takeoff, cruise, and landing. It plans to secure this approval from the U.S. aviation regulator during the second half of 2023.
In August 2022, the FAA confirmed acceptance of the <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-08-23/faa-accepts-reliable-robotics-certification-basis-pilotless-technology">certification basis</a> for the advanced navigation and autoflight system on which the Reliable Robotics remotely&nbsp;operated system is based. Under its own Part 135 operator’s certificate, the company has been testing the technology with a pilot on board cargo flights in the Albuquerque, New Mexico area.
Last month, <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2021-10-14/reliable-robotics-gets-100-million-funding-boost-remotely-piloted">Reliable Robotics</a> announced a partnership with Europe-based airlines group <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2022-12-16/airline-group-backs-reliable-robotics-making-case-remotely-operated">ASL Aviation Holdings </a>to explore prospects for introducing remotely&nbsp;operated aircraft to its fleet. Initially, the companies aim to select twin-turboprop freighters for conversion.
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Charles Alcock

Reliable Robotics is developing navigation and autopilot technology to allow aircraft like the Cessna Caravan to be remotely operated in all phases of flight. (Image: Reliable Robotics)

FAA Clears Reliable Robotics for Next Stage of Remote Operations Approval

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