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

Japanese airline ANA is expanding its <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/news-article/2022-02-15/japans-all-nippon-airways-and-toyota-back-jobys-evtol-rideshare-plans">partnership</a> with eVTOL aircraft manufacturer Joby Aviation to prepare for the launch of air taxi services through a joint venture. The companies announced the initiative on August 5, saying that it could involve more than 100 of Joby’s four-passenger aircraft.
The partners have not said how the joint venture will function in terms of who will own and operate the eVTOL fleet. They indicated that plans call for a phased rollout of services starting in and around the capital, Tokyo.
From October 1 to 13, Joby will conduct public demonstration flights at the Expo 2025 event in the western Japanese city of Osaka. This aircraft will be painted in the livery of ANA, which is Japan’s largest airline.
“Air taxi service will directly contribute to addressing Japan’s urban transportation difficulties, ultimately enhancing regional exchange and providing a new, efficient means of travel,” said ANA’s president and CEO, Koji Shibata. “Demonstration flights at the Expo are the first step in addressing that challenge. Alongside our partners, we are dedicated to building this future while adhering to the highest safety standards developed by the ANA Group.”
The expanded alliance with ANA Holdings builds on longstanding partnerships Joby has in Japan, including with car maker Toyota Motor Corporation, a <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-10-02/toyota-agrees-500m-investment-jobys-evtol-aircraft">major investor</a> in the California-based company. In November 2024, Joby and Toyota conducted a <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-11-02/joby-and-toyota-demonstrate-evtol-aircraft-japan">demonstration flight in Japan</a> against the iconic backdrop of Mount Fuji.
Joby is aiming to complete FAA type certification of its eVTOL aircraft in time to allow first commercial air taxi services to begin in Dubai in 2026. It would then need to secure validation of this approval from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau.
“Where ancient wisdom, legendary craftsmanship, and soaring ambition converge—that’s Japan. And that makes it an extraordinary launchpad for redefining the future of air mobility,” said Joby’s founder and CEO, JoeBen Bevirt. “Our vision is bold: to build new pathways in the skies and reimagine everyday life. Together with ANA, we’re setting a foundation to do just that, to deliver Joby aircraft and an entire air transport ecosystem woven into Japan’s vibrant cities.”

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