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

General aviation services group GDAT is set to start operating the Airbus H160 helicopter in China after taking delivery of its first aircraft in that country on Tuesday. The company ordered 50 examples of the utility-twin model in April 2023 and has since taken delivery of five other aircraft from this batch for operations outside China.
The H160 delivered this week will mainly be used to support energy sector customers. Flights will include transportation to offshore oil and gas platforms, as well for trips to wind farms, harbor piloting, emergency medical, and public service missions.
Since Airbus began deliveries of the H160 in December 2021, the model has entered service for a variety of applications, including law enforcement, search and rescue, and passenger transportation. Other operators are based in France, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, the U.S., Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, and the UK.
“We are proud to be the first to receive the brand-new H160 in China,” said GDAT chairman Peter Jiang. “The introduction of this aircraft continues GDAT’s long-term commitment to providing state-of-the-art helicopter technology to both the Chinese market and those around the world, and underlines our commitment to the safety, quality, and efficiency of our operations.”
Last month, Airbus started flight testing a <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2025-07-25/airbus-starts-flight-tests-military-h160-helicopter">military version of the H160</a> that has been ordered by France’s armed forces.

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News and issues about aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), covering all segments of the aviation industry; and modifications for aircraft and engines. Subjects include product support of aircraft, engines and avionics, MRO company mergers, acquisitions, announcements and personnel, Airworthiness Directives, Supplemental Type Certificate approvals and other topics.

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In this article

H160

Airbus Helicopters

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