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

Autonomous flight pioneer Reliable Robotics has raised a further $160 million in its latest funding round. Announcing the fresh capital on April 21, the California-based start-up said the support from investors led by Pathbreaker Ventures will accelerate the deployment and production of its Reliable Autonomy System (RAS), for which it is targeting FAA certification in 2028.
Later this year, Reliable Robotics is set to start trial autonomous cargo operations with the <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2025-08-26/us-air-force-buys-autonomous-freighter-reliable-robotics">U.S. Air Force</a> in the Indo-Pacific region and also through its FAA-backed Advanced Air Mobility pilot project. According to the company it holds commitments for over 200 installations from commercial and military customers. It has also been selected to participate in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2026-03-31/faa-evtol-integration-pilot-program-flips-script">eVTOL Integration Pilot Project</a> in Alberquerque, New Mexico.
Earlier this month, Reliable Robotics completed a series of <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2026-04-08/reliable-completes-detect-and-avoid-tests-near-airports">FAA-contracted flight tests</a> intended to evaluate whether large uncrewed aircraft systems can safely share airspace with crewed aircraft near airports. The company has conducted trials of its technology with aircraft including Textron’s Cessna Caravan for a variety of logistics operations.
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New developments and products in avionics, specifically about aircraft electronics in the cockpit.

Reliable Robotics Raises $160 Million to Advance Autonomous Flight System

U.S. start-up is pressing for FAA certification in 2028

Efforts to bring the Reliable Autonomy System to market for civil and military applications have landed $160 million in a funding round for Reliable Robotics.

Reliable Robotics Raises $160 Million For Autonomous Flight 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Charlotte Bailey

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.

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.

Feature identifies reachable runways and off-airport landing sites in event of emergency

ForeFlight App Introduces Emergency Glide Mode

Matt Thurber

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.

New features added from company’s inReach satcom technology

Garmin Marries Satellite Messaging with D2 Mach 2 Pro

Device features standard headset plugs with no adapter required

Sporty’s PJ2 GPS Adds Nav Features to Handheld Radio

New developments at airports including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

Airline-focused app’s latest version gains a number of new features

Jeppesen ForeFlight Adds FliteDeck Pro Graphical Notams

T4000 bundles multiple sensors into a single heated unit

Microair Integrates Pitot Probe with Air Data Computer

Units equipped with no-memory-effect nickel-metal hydride batteries

Emergency Battery Power Supplies Are True Blue’s Newest

News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

Dealers and manufacturers share information at the annual confab

Avionics Industry Optimistic as AEA Opens Convention

News, issues, personnel, equipment and developments about air traffic management.

Issues regarding financing of aircraft; aviation insurance; tax issues for aircraft operators; new companies and people in the aviation financing and insurance industries.

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