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

Manta Aircraft is set to step up work on its newly-unveiled Ann6 hybrid-electric aircraft in 2025. The Europe-based start-up introduced a mock-up of the new six-seat design at the recent China Airshow in Zhuhai as it works towards the start of flight testing a full-scale prototype around mid-2026, with service entry projected by the end of 2028.
In the new year, Manta’s engineering team will focus on finalizing the propulsion system, which features eight ducted electric fan motors with batteries and a turbine that can run on sustainable aviation fuel. Depending on whether the Ann6 operates in VTOL or short takeoff and landing mode, the piloted aircraft is expected to have a range of between 163 nm and 544 nm at a cruise speed of around 130 knots.
According to Manta co-founder and COO Michael Mesaric, the company has been making some light design modifications in response to feedback from prospective customers. The company has applied for a patent on the Ann family’s canard configuration, which it said will support improved aerodynamic efficiency in cruise flight, better performance in low-speed VTOL mode, more convenient weight and balance distribution, and better access to the cabin and baggage compartment.
<a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-05-03/manta-taps-altairs-computational-intelligence-ann-aircraft">Manta</a> is also now setting up test benches for avionics and systems integration work. Envisaged use cases for the aircraft include passenger transportation, offshore energy installation support, and emergency medical or disaster relief flights.

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.

Manta Steps Up Work on Six-Seater Ann6 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft

Latest version of the design was unveiled at the recent China Airshow in Zhuhai

Manta has tweaked the design for its Ann6 aircraft in response to input from prospective customers, with range projected at more than 500 nm in STOL mode.

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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 the aerospace industry that are related to the science, engineering and business of flight in space involving civil, industrial and military applications, and similar topics related to flight in the atmosphere of the Earth that are not covered more directly by other AINonline subject channels. In other words, both astronautical and aeronautical subjects, except for those aeronautical topics that are specifically covered elsewhere on this website.

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Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

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