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

Transportation officials in Scotland are evaluating the possibility of replacing aging ferries with seagliders being developed by U.S. start-up Regent Craft. Earlier this month, the Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS), which is backed by the Scottish government, launched a partnership with the manufacturer that could lead to the 12-passenger Viceroy vessel being deployed on maritime connections to and from islands and other remote communities.
The study will explore how the electric seagliders might operate on routes connecting the Western Isles, the Orkney Islands, and parts of the Highland, Moray, Argyll and Bute. HITRANS, which received a new mandate from the Scottish government this year, is one of seven regional transportation partnerships in Scotland and is responsible for about 50% of the country’s total landmass. The agency has been struggling with disruption and rising costs for ferry services using aging ships.
Rhode Island-based Regent is aiming to be ready to start delivering the Viceroy from 2027 after completing certification under maritime regulations. With a wingspan of 65 feet, the seaglider is design to operate in wing-in-ground-effect mode just a few feet above the water, or on its hull or hydrofoils, and at speeds of up to 160 knots.
In the longer term, Regent aims to produce a larger seaglider called the Monarch that would carry 100 passengers. The company has reported a backlog of prospective orders valued at $10 billion with prospective customers including U.S. commuter airline Southern Airways Express, South Florida start-up UrbanLink, freight operator UME Shipping, New Zealand’s Ocean Flyer and Croatian ferry operator Split Express.
In July, Regent announced plans for a <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2025-07-17/regent-plans-military-variants-viceroy-electric-seaglider">military version</a> of the Viceroy that could operate autonomously for possible Navy and Marine missions. The company has launched a strategic partnership around this project with Fairlead, which specializes in ship repairs, fabrication and systems integration.

News about commercial airlines, including regulations, aircraft orders, safety, acquisitions, and mergers.

Scotland Considers Regent's Electric Seagliders to Replace Aging Ferries

The 12-passenger Viceroy could connect island and highland communities

Regent Craft's 12-passenger electric Viceroy seaglider could replace aging ferries to connect remote communities across Scotland's islands and highland regions.

Scotland Considers Electric Seagliders to Replace Aging Ferries

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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 about environmental issues relating to aircraft operations, including noise issues, emissisions, and regulations. See Fuel for biofuel.

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.

The operator serves 73 remote communities across Alaska, including native tribes

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

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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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New developments and products in avionics, specifically about aircraft electronics in the cockpit.

System provides aural and text alerts of potential safety hazards

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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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