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

Looking to tap the growing Russian market for in-flight connectivity, Satcom Direct has announced plans to open an office in Moscow. The U.S. company is here at the JetExpo show this week demonstrating its latest capability, including the new Satcom Direct Router (SDR), its first certified hardware product.


The SDR is a next-generation aircraft network router developed to simplify cabin communications and to allow simultaneous use of multiple satellite connections. The Florida-based company explained that the new router is satellite-ready for L-Band, Ku-Band, Ka-Band and X-Band communications.


The new unit employs intelligent traffic control technology that allows multiple communications systems to be used at the same time on the aircraft with the need for additional wireless access points. This also allows users to have dedicated guest or dedicated VVIP networks in the cabin. The system also enables standard 3G/4G wireless connections while the aircraft is on the ground, and the SDR’s dual-SIM module allows customers to have access to competitive U.S. and global roaming connection rates.


The SDR also supports mobile applications for on-board cabin services such as a moving map and Flight Tracker. It can work in conjunction with currently available SwiftBroadband and Swift 64 satellite communication packages offered by Cobham Satcom(<a href="http://ainonline.com/aviation-news/nbaa-convention-news/2012-10-31/cobham-acquires-thrane-thrane-now-cobham-satcom">formerly Thrane &amp; Thrane</a>), Honeywell and Rockwell Collins. It is also compatible with ViaSat’s Yonder Ku-Band service and with Inmarsat’s planned Global Xpress Ka-Band service. Satcom Direct, which already has international offices in the UK, Dubai, Hong Kong, Brazil and Canada, is also promoting its FlightDeck Freedom datalink network.


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Satcom Direct To Open New Moscow Office

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