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

Bell Textron appointed Japan General Aviation Service (JGAS) as an authorized reseller for the Bell 505 single-engine rotorcraft in the Japanese market, the U.S. rotorcraft manufacturer announced in Tokyo on Wednesday.
JGAS has operated as an aircraft and spares sales agent in the country since 2009 and also provides aftermarket support. In 2023, the company signed a contract to take delivery of the first Bell 429 Designer Series helicopter in Japan.
According to the Textron subsidiary, it has delivered more than 100 Bell 505s to customers in the Asia-Pacific region. The single-pilot light helicopter, which entered the market in 2017, can carry four passengers on routes of up to 306 nm.
“We have seen the Bell 505 grow from strength to strength in the region over the last few years and we want to ensure the momentum continues within Japan,” said Takuya Masamura, the country manager for Bell Japan. “With their extensive experience and deep commitment to the customer, JGAS was the ideal choice to work with to grow the Bell 505’s presence in a key market.”

News and issues regarding all manner of civil and military rotorcraft and their powerplants, including helicopters, tilt rotors and unmanned air vehicles.

Bell Textron Appoints Japanese Dealer for 505 Single-engine Helicopter

Japan General Aviation Service is already a customer for the larger 429 model

Bell said it expects to boost helicopter sales in the Asia-Pacific region with the appointment this week of an authorized reseller for the 505 model in Japan.

Bell Appoints Japanese Dealer for 505 Helicopter

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Matt Thurber

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.

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.

Plan will help ensure long-term job stability for Portugal workforce

Avincis Strengthens Portugal Helicopter MRO Base

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

Twin-engine aircraft will be based at Broome in Western Australia

PHI Adds H175s to Australian Energy Support Fleet

Kits are retrofittable to 429s with existing single- or dual-hook systems

Onboard Talon Dual Cargo Hook Approved in Bell 429

ORRA encourages helicopter companies to go beyond traditional risk management

Operators Enrolling in VAI Risk Accreditation Program

News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

In this article

Bell 505 Jet Ranger X

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Avincis Strengthens Portugal Helicopter MRO Base

Plan will help ensure long-term job stability for Portugal workforce

PHI Adds H175s to Australian Energy Support Fleet

Twin-engine aircraft will be based at Broome in Western Australia

Onboard Talon Dual Cargo Hook Approved in Bell 429

Kits are retrofittable to 429s with existing single- or dual-hook systems

Operators Enrolling in VAI Risk Accreditation Program

ORRA encourages helicopter companies to go beyond traditional risk management

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