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

Electra.Aero has selected Evolito to provide electric propulsion units (EPUs) of its EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. The U.S. start-up announced the partnership on October 13, saying that the equipment will be a key element in the distributed <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/news-article/2022-09-07/electra-completes-test-hybrid-electric-engine-estol-aircraft">electric propulsion system</a> for the blown-lift design.
The Evolito EPU combines lightweight electric motors with motor controllers and a thermal control system. Each of the nine-passenger EL9’s eight wing-mounted propellers will have its own aerospace-grade EPU.
The companies said the first flightworthy propulsion units will be supplied to Electra in 2027. Evolito has already shipped some "development content" from its factory at Bicester in the UK.
<a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2025-08-14/electra-set-take-deposits-ultra-short-hybrid-electric-aircraft">Virginia-based Electra</a>, which has been flying a sub-scale EL2 demonstrator aircraft since late 2024 while it completes the design for the EL9. Electra is aiming to be ready to fly a full-scale EL9 prototype in 2027 as it works towards FAA Part 23 type certification and first deliveries in 2029.
In August, Electra said it had started talks with a select group of prospective customers with a view to taking <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2025-08-14/electra-set-take-deposits-ultra-short-hybrid-electric-aircraft">initial deposits</a> for the aircraft, which is expected to need just 150 feet to takeoff and land. It has reported over 2,200 “pre-orders” from more than 60 commercial customers worldwide.
“Our production contract with Evolito is a significant step forward for our vision for Direct Aviation—safe, quiet, and affordable air mobility that connects communities in ways never before possible,” said Electra’s CEO, Marc Allen. “Evolito’s lightweight, durable, and cost-effective design will provide exceptional long-term value for operators through low maintenance, long-life and proven reliability.”
<a href="https://www.ainonline.com/news-article/2023-12-05/design-organization-approval-evolito-clears-path-electric-propulsion-type">Evolito</a> earned its design organization approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority in December 2023. At the time, it indicated that it hoped to achieve the first type certification for its 100- to 200-kilowatt range of EPUs in 2026.

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

Electra.Aero Selects Evolito to Power EL9 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft

UK start-up will supply eight electric propulsion systems for each aircraft

Electra.Aero has selected Evolito to provide the electric propulsion units for its blown-wing EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft.

Electra Selects Evolito to Power EL9 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft

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News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

The OEM has switched its production from Global 7500 engines to those for the Model 8000

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

News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

News and issues relating to the aerospace industry that are related to the science, engineering and business of flight in space involving civil, industrial and military applications, and similar topics related to flight in the atmosphere of the Earth that are not covered more directly by other AINonline subject channels. In other words, both astronautical and aeronautical subjects, except for those aeronautical topics that are specifically covered elsewhere on this website.

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Project Newborn Team Targets Hydrogen Flights in 2028 

News and developments about aviation fuel, including jet fuel, aviation gasoline, and biofuel.

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Readers rate business aviation engine OEMs’ aftermarket support

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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.

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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.

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