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

IndiGo has ordered more than 1,000 of CFM International’s Leap 1A engines to power its fleet of 510 Airbus A320neos. The Indian carrier signed a memorandum of understanding with the Safran/GE joint venture at the Farnborough International Airshow on Monday­­­, representing the largest-ever order for the turbofans.
Under the terms of the deal, CFM has agreed to help establish IndiGo’s new maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility. The engine maker will also provide spare parts and a commitment to support high dispatch reliability.
IndiGo has operated aircraft with CFM engines for 10 years, having begun with A320ceo twinjets powered by CFM56-5B engines in 2016. In 2019, the carrier ordered its first A320/321neos.
“As IndiGo embarks on its next phase of growth towards becoming a truly global airline, we are delighted to extend our long-standing partnership with CFM International for the engines powering future deliveries of our Airbus A320/321neo Family aircraft fleet,” commented Willie Walsh, IndiGo’s CEO designate. “The Leap engine’s industry-leading proven reliability makes it the ideal choice to support our scale, operational resilience, and sustainability ambitions. This partnership reinforces our commitment to providing safe, reliable, and efficient travel across an ever-expanding network in India and around the world.”
In another deal announced on Monday, leasing group Jackson Square Aviation selected Leap 1As for some previously ordered A320neos.

News and developments about aircraft engines, including turbofan, turboprop, turboshaft and piston.

IndiGo Orders 1,000 CFM Leap Engines To Power A320neo Fleet

Engine maker will help Indian carrier start its own MRO shop

CFM International is reporting what it says is the largest order for Leap 1A engines to power 510 Airbus A320neo narrowbody airliners.

IndiGo Orders 1,000 CFM Leap Engines for A320neos

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Matt Thurber

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.

New intervals based on endurance testing and fleet data

Lycoming Boosts Time Between Overhaul to 2,600 Hours

Charlotte Bailey

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Vaeridion Announces Electric Propulsion Partner

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

One flight test lasted more than two hours

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Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

Agreements cover PW1500/1900 turbofans and F-135 components

GKN Expands Partnerships with Pratt & Whitney

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MagniX Opens Order Book for MagniAIR Electric Engine

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V2X awarded the contract, continuing a longstanding relationship

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David Donald

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.

Farnborough Airshow 2026

More In Engines

Lycoming Boosts Time Between Overhaul to 2,600 Hours

New intervals based on endurance testing and fleet data

Vaeridion Announces Electric Propulsion Partner

Drive System Design to develop Microliner’s drive system architecture

GE, NASA, Beta, Boeing Conduct High-altitude Hybrid Flight

One flight test lasted more than two hours

GKN Expands Partnerships with Pratt & Whitney

Agreements cover PW1500/1900 turbofans and F-135 components

MagniX Opens Order Book for MagniAIR Electric Engine

Buyers can place a deposit for delivery in 2027

P&WC Bridgeport Wins $1B T-6 Engine Overhaul Contract

V2X awarded the contract, continuing a longstanding relationship

GE’s Dreamliner Engine Passes 50 Million Hours

Milestone notched in just over 14 years in service

British Airways Picks Pratt & Whitney GTF for A320neos

The Pratt & Whitney engine could power more than 60 new British Airways A320s

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