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

Indonesian helicopter operator Whitesky Aviation has placed a provisional order for up to 30 of SkyDrive’s SD-05 three-seat eVTOL aircraft. The Japanese manufacturer announced the deal as part of a partnership agreement on August 21.
Both companies said they will start planning eVTOL air-taxi services in and around the country’s capital, Jakarta, as well as in support of mining industry operations. Flights could operate out of the Cengkareng heliport, which is owned by Whitesky, and also Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (WIII).
Initially, operations are expected to start with sightseeing flights close to Jakarta in 2028. SkyDrive has received its G-1 certification basis from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau and in July raised $57 million through a <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2025-07-08/railway-companies-back-skydrives-plans-evtol-air-taxis">pre-Series D funding</a> round backed by two railway companies and Suzuki Motor Corp. It already has other partnerships in progress with partners in the U.S., the Middle East, and other parts of Asia.
In addition to helicopters, Whitesky, which was founded in 2010, also has a jet management and charter division. Its plans for a Jakarta-area air-taxi network cover the heavily congested city’s Fairmont Jakarta Hotel, the Plaza Office Tower, BSD City, District 8, and Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport (WIHH).

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

Indonesian Helicopter Group and SkyDrive Plan SD-05 eVTOL Air-taxi Services 

Whitesky Aviation says it may buy up to 30 of SkyDrive’s three-seat eVTOL vehicle

Whitesky Aviation aims to launch eVTOL air taxi services for tourists and business travelers in Indonesia using SkyDrive’s three-seat SD-05 aircraft.

Indonesian Helicopter Group Plans eVTOL Air-taxi Services

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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.

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.

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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 and issues relating to international air transport and cargo carriers, national airlines and regional airlines, including aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

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Issues regarding financing of aircraft; aviation insurance; tax issues for aircraft operators; new companies and people in the aviation financing and insurance industries.

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

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Sarah Rose

News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

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