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

EASA has issued a revised conflict zone information bulletin (CZIB), updating its safety guidance around flights in Russian airspace. The <a href="https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/domains/air-operations/czibs/2025-01">update</a> issued on January 9 specifically recommends against operations at all flight levels in Russian Federation airspace west of longitude 60 degrees east.
The European aviation safety agency said the latest CZIB is intended to take account of escalating risks resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and especially those relating to Russian air defense systems and drones. Specifically, the advisory draws attention to the December 25 incident in which an Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft crashed after being intercepted by Russian forces during a flight from Baku to Grozny. The flight diverted over the Caspian Sea to Kazakhstan.
EASA warned that the deployment of Russian air defense systems in response to Ukrainian missiles and drones could have a direct impact on flight operations. The agency said Russia has “not demonstrated full proficiency” in addressing airspace risks “by implementing an efficient and proactive approach to airspace deconfliction.”
The CZIB also extends the existing warning about dangers related to jamming and spoofing of global navigation satellite systems. It covers the following flight information regions: Moscow, Rostov, Saint Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, and Samura.

News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

EASA Extends Safety Warning over Flights in Russian Airspace

Updated conflict zone information bulletin follows destruction of Azerbaijan Airlines flight

EASA has issued a new advisory for Russian airspace, warning operators to avoid all flight levels in the country's airspace west of 60 degrees longitude.

EASA Extends Warning over Flights in Russian Airspace

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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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.

A report of engine damage claims a metallic object was involved

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News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

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.

Part 135 operators face a May 2027 SMS deadline

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Pilots must be aware of when known icing is present and prepare

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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.

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News and issues relating to civil and military unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) of all kinds and sizes, including those used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), combat (unmanned combat air vehicles, or UCAVs), law enforcement, research and other applications. Of particular focus is the FAA's planned integration of UAS into the U.S. national airspace system.

NASA ASRS database gives insight into drone safety

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

News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

Partners say the industry has "a significant security shortfall."

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New InFO document cites an ICAO standard and EASA requirements

FAA Calls on General Aviation Operators To Adopt SMS

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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