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

Airbus unveiled the first full-scale prototype of its CityAirbus NextGen eVTOL aircraft as it prepares to start flight testing later this year. The company presented the four-passenger model during an event at its Donauwörth facility in Germany, where it has opened the research and development base for the program.
The <a href="https://www.futureflight.aero/news-article/2024-02-15/first-cityairbus-nextgen-evtol-prototype-approaches-roll-out-ahead-flight">CityAirbus aircraft </a>is being developed to operate mainly on flights of up to around 80 kilometers (50 miles) at speeds of 120 km/h. With a 12-meter (40-foot) wingspan, the design features right rotors, including four mounted on the rear side of the wing for vertical lift, plus a pair of forward-facing propellers and two pusher props installed on the tail.
In December, the CityAirbus powered up the aircraft for the first time as it started a series of ground tests on the electric motors and rotors. The engineering team is also testing flight controls and avionics as it prepares for its first flight. The Donauwörth site is already in use by Airbus Helicopters.
The European aerospace group said its new Donauwörth facility is part of its long-term investment in the advanced air mobility sector. “Rolling out the CityAirbus NextGen for the very first time is an important and very real step that we are taking towards advanced air mobility and our future product and market,” said Balkiz Sarihan, CEO and head of Urban Air Mobility at Airbus. “Thank you to our community, team, and partners all over the world for helping us to make this a reality.”

Charles Alcock

The first prototype of the CityAirbus NextGen eVTOL aircraft was unveiled on March 7 at the company's test center in Donauwörth, Germany. (Image: Airbus)

CityAirbus NextGen eVTOL Prototype Unveiled at German Development Base

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