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

German charter operator Platoon Aviation is expanding its fleet with a multi-aircraft order for Cessna Citation Longitudes. The company announced the agreement with Textron Aviation on Wednesday, later confirming that the deal covers 4 firm orders and options for another 12 of the super midsize jets.
The Longitudes are expected to enter service with Platoon in early 2027. The Hamburg-based company already has a floating fleet of 12 Pilatus PC-24 light jets in Europe, and says it is set to become Europe's Longitude operator.
Platoon chose the Longitude to extend the scope of its charter operations, with the Longitude able to fly up to 3,500 nm with four passengers on board. This allows trips such as London to Dubai, Hamburg to Madrid, and Dublin to Athens. The PC-24s are limited to sectors of up to around 2,000 nm.
Czech airline Smartwings operates several Citation Longitudes and Sovereigns as part of its private charter fleet (formerly Travel Service). Its order for the Longitudes was announced at EBACE 2017.&nbsp;In Germany, Düsseldorf-based IFM Traviation received a Citation Longitude last year, having placed an order at EBACE 2023. It also operates a pair of Sovereigns.
“The Citation Longitude fleet expansion reflects our commitment to building a future-proof, next-generation aviation platform that combines operational efficiency, sustainability, and uncompromising comfort,” said Platoon Aviation CEO Deniz Weissenborn. “These aircraft position us to meet the evolving expectations of modern travelers while giving our clients greater flexibility, reliability, and connectivity across Europe and beyond.”
Powered by a pair of Honeywell HTF7700L engines, the Longitude has a cruise speed of 483 knots and can operate at a service ceiling of 43,000 feet. The jet, which received EASA type certification in 2021, has a six-foot high stand-up cabin and a 4,810-foot takeoff distance.
Platoon said that the cabin interiors for its Longitudes will look similar to those of its PC-24 jets, with six seats and a divan for an additional three passengers. The color scheme will be the same for both aircraft types to reinforce the Platoon brand.
This story was updated on May 29 with further details about the number of aircraft covered by the contract.

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