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

China-based eVTOL aircraft manufacturer EHang said it is collaborating with the Spanish National Police to explore potential use cases for its autonomous air vehicles (AAVs) for emergency and security missions. The company made the announcement at World Air Traffic Management Congress in Madrid where it is exhibiting its EHang 216 vehicle&nbsp;at the Cuatro Vientos Aerodrome.
Working with the Polytechnic University of Valencia, EHang and the Spanish National Police plan to flight test the AAV for prospective emergency situations such as rescue and surveillance. The partners say autonomous flight operations promise&nbsp;to significantly improve the Spanish National Police's capability in emergency and security missions, such as firefighting; accessing contaminated areas with nuclear, radiological, bacteriological or chemical risks; landing in confined areas; transporting material; and [performing] other police services that may require agile mobility.
In addition to passenger&nbsp;services, EHang also is developing cargo-carrying, emergency medical support and fire-fighting versions of the EH216. The new VT-30 model is expected to deliver greater range than the current model's limit of around 22 miles.&nbsp; 
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Charles Alcock

In China, EHang's EH216 autonomous eVTOL aircraft has support government agencies in various Covid pandemic response roles. (Photo: Ehang)

Spanish Police Take a Look At EHang's eVTOLs For Emergency and Security Missions

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