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

Comlux has won a contract to conduct major maintenance and refurbishment work on a Boeing Business Jet “bizliner” based in Asia. The airliner-size business aircraft, operated on behalf of its private owner by Hong Kong-based management company Sino Jet, is due to arrive at the Comlux America completions center in Indianapolis during the second quarter of 2014 and will spend four months there.


The maintenance program will include a mandatory 12-year C-check. The Comlux America team also will completely repaint the BBJ and conduct a comprehensive remodeling of the cabin, including reupholstered seats, a new custom-made carpet and reworking of the valence panel and bulkheads.


“The owner wanted to bring light into his aircraft,” said Jenny Lau, Sino Jet CEO. “Thanks to the new material selection–leather and suede–and the choice of the colors white, light beige and gold, the designers of Comlux America have managed to create his vision throughout the cabin.”


Last year, Comlux (Booth H718) conducted similar work for a BBJ owned by South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Company. “Since 2010, our mechanics and craftsmen have gained solid experience working on BBJ aircraft,” commented Comlux America CEO Jim Soleo. “As always, our objective is to deliver the aircraft at the highest quality and with minimum downtime. Our staff is fully prepped and readily awaiting the arrival of the aircraft in our facilities.”


Airbus Corporate Jet on Display


Here at the ABACE 2014, Airbus is displaying an ACJ319 bizliner, which is operated in the charter market by Comlux. It is the first time the aircraft, featuring an interior developed by Comlux America, has been shown in China. Comlux itself is also displaying a Bombardier Global 6000 long-range business jet.


According to Richard Gaona, Comlux president and CEO, the Europe-based group currently has an ACJ319 and an ACJ320 largely based in Asia and operating under a European air operator certificate (AOC). He told AIN that there is increasing interest among businesses and wealthy individuals in China and other parts of Asia to use large aircraft like these, as well smaller business jets.


“In Asia, with the exception of the Chinese mainland, if you have a U.S. or European aircraft, you can operate it almost anywhere for international flights. Most of the demand is for these rather than domestic flights,” said Gaona. He added that Comlux has no immediate plans to secure a Chinese AOC.


“But we do see opportunities for partnerships in China and we have been approached by some people,” Gaona added, indicating that these opportunities may be in the areas of maintenance and completions work. “We are now in talks on these points, but it is not a matter of urgency. China will probably grow and people are buying a lot of preowned aircraft that will need local maintenance support. We want the right partners and we have a two- to three-year plan for China.”

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