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

Former flight attendant Kimberley Mason is seeking to bring an extra level of comfort to private jet passengers with the launch of a new flight bag developed by her UK-based company, Urma Textiles. Each flight bag contains a blanket, socks and eye mask made from exceptionally soft and luxurious baby alpaca wool and can be customized for each client with individual colors, stitching and logos.


“When I was flying [for a small private operator] I was amazed how difficult it was to source matching soft furnishings for the jets for which I was responsible,” Mason told AIN. “Sourcing blankets, eye masks and flight socks was impossible. You either had to order a large amount and wait for months–not practical for a small operation–or source downroute while on duty. And what was available was neither comfortable nor beautiful and, for sure, it was not consistent.”


There is no minimum order requirement for the $675 flight bags and each order is specially prepared by Urma to meet the preferences of the operator or individual passenger. “It’s important that each client receives not only a luxury product, but a product that reflects the company and the company’s personality,” said Mason.


Urma is based at Manchester Airport in the northwest of England. At the same location, Mason also runs a private aviation catering business called Gast Maison, delivering food to airports across the region.

News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

Flight Bags Bring a Touch of Cozy Luxury to the Cabin

Baby alpaca wool blankets, socks and eye masks feature in new bespoke flight bags.

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Matt Thurber

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.

Complaint claims Gogo forced only competitor out of air-to-ground market

SmartSky $1B Lawsuit Accuses Gogo of Illegal Monopoly

Jessica Reed

MoU outlines plans to work on next-gen connectivity technologies, such as Honeywell’s JetWave X Satcom system

Honeywell and Sino Jet To Partner on Connectivity Tech

STC approval was granted in late August

Starlink Connectivity Reaches Gulfstream GIV Fleet

Service provider Gogo has 27 STC packages under development for business aircraft

OneWeb Low-earth-orbit Satcom Set To Launch on January 1

Company offers customized cabins for large VVIP aircraft

Greenpoint Highlights Oasis and AeroSuite Interiors

News and issues about aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), covering all segments of the aviation industry; and modifications for aircraft and engines. Subjects include product support of aircraft, engines and avionics, MRO company mergers, acquisitions, announcements and personnel, Airworthiness Directives, Supplemental Type Certificate approvals and other topics.

The specialist engineering group is expanding its portfolio for business and VIP aircraft

AMAC Offers Starlink Comms and Missile Defense Systems

Jet Aviation also now offers Jet Card charter program in the EMEA region

Jet Aviation and Creston Team For IFE and Cabin Management

Peter Shaw-Smith

News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

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.

More In Cabin Interior and Electronics