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

The U.S. government this week formally implemented its new trade agreement with the European Union, with the Commerce Department and Trade Representative’s <a href="https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-18660.pdf">office publishing guidance</a> on how the standard 15% tariff will apply to most imports with the exception of aircraft and aircraft parts, as well as pharmaceuticals. Industry groups, including NBAA, welcomed the Trump Administration’s concession in zero-rating European aerospace products&nbsp;after it had implemented a 10% tariff on these earlier this year.
Issued yesterday,&nbsp;the guidance states that the zero rating is retroactive to imports made since September 1. The final trade agreement is consistent regarding deals the U.S. struck with the UK in June and Japan earlier this month.
However, aviation exports from Brazil and Switzerland remain subject to tariffs at the respective rates of 10% and 39%. Leaders of Brazilian aircraft manufacturer <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2025-08-05/embraer-negotiating-zero-tariffs-brazil-aerospace">Embraer</a> and Switzerland’s Pilatus continue to lobby for exemptions, with the latter <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2025-08-11/tariffs-force-temporary-halt-pilatus-us-deliveries">pausing deliveries</a> of its PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft to U.S. customers.
“Last year, U.S. civil aviation built a $104 billion surplus, leading all other manufacturing trade sectors, and has been an export leader since 1979, when the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft established a zero-tariff level playing field with dozens of other countries,” noted NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. He added that the agreement will stimulate jobs and innovation in the U.S.

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

Industry Relieved over Zero-rated EU Aerospace Tariffs

However, tariffs remain in place with aerospace sectors in Brazil and Switzerland

Industry groups, including the NBAA, welcomed this week’s U.S. government confirmation that European aircraft and parts will be exempt from import tariffs.

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Curt Epstein

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.

Ouzel Services founder will join Titan’s insurance division

Titan Aerospace Insurance Expands West Coast Coverage

The company has partnered with AI provider Aviox 

Light Jet Broker Aerista Embraces AI Analytics

David G. Mayer

Cash is king, but using other people's money could be more advantageous

AINsight: Why Refinancing Your Aircraft Pays Off

Amy Wilder

Inventory fell to 6.6% of fleet versus 8.2% historical average

Preowned Jet Values Rise In Face of Transaction Declines

Increased aircraft ownership and flight hours drove gains

NetJets, FlightSafety See 11.8% Revenue Growth in Q1

Matt Thurber

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.

Goal is to make the process similar to buying car coverage

ForeFlight Launches Aircraft Insurance Marketplace

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.

North America up 6.6% year over year, while Europe climbs 4.9%

Global Bizav Activity Climbs 6.5% YOY in March

Neelam Mathews

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.

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