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

Switzerland’s Federal Office of Civil Aviation has approved Frasca International’s Pilatus PC-12 Pro training systems as a Level 2 flight training device and flight and navigation procedures trainer. The FlightSafety International subsidiary announced the qualification this week at Aero Friedrichshafen 2026 in Germany.
According to U.S.-based Frasca, it is the first company to develop a training device for the latest version of the Swiss-made turboprop single. The trainer, which has been installed at Pilatus Aircraft headquarters in Stans, Switzerland, features Garmin’s G3000 Prime avionics suite.
“By pairing high-fidelity flight modeling and visual systems with Garmin’s G3000 Prime, we are delivering a training solution that matches sophistication of the airplane,” said Frasca International president John Frasca.
Pilatus is combining flight simulation with web-based training for pilots preparing to operate PC-12s and PC-24s. “The result is a training program that not only delivers the highest quality but also actively contributes to improved flight safety,” said David Liechti, team leader for flight training at the manufacturer.
Since it was founded in 1958, Frasca International has designed and manufactured nearly 3,000 training devices. It currently supports more than 50 different aircraft types.

News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

Swiss Regulator Approves Frasca’s PC-12 Pro Training Device for Level 2

FlightSafety subsidiary’s latest training device now meets Level 2 standards

Frasca has installed the first example of its PC-12 Pro flight and navigation procedures training device at the Pilatus headquarters in Switzerland.

Swiss Regulator Approves PC-12 Pro Training Device 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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.

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.

French manufacturer displays new version of two-seat trainer at Aero Friedrichshafen show

Global Aviation Orders Five Elixir+ Training Aircraft

Hanneke Weitering

News and issues relating to civil and military unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) of all kinds and sizes, including those used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), combat (unmanned combat air vehicles, or UCAVs), law enforcement, research and other applications. Of particular focus is the FAA's planned integration of UAS into the U.S. national airspace system.

FAA's Part 108 rules exposes gaps in drone talent pipeline

Drone Industry Faces Talent Crunch Ahead of BVLOS Launch

Sheryl Barden

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.

Those that are self-aware and prepared will succeed

AINsight: What Sets Bizav Graduates Apart Early?

Matt Thurber

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

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.

Program introduces students to FBO and MRO aviation career opportunities 

Chicago Launching Barrington Irving STEM Initiative

New developments and products in avionics, specifically about aircraft electronics in the cockpit.

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.

CAET program is an acceptable alternative method of compliance

FAA Recognizes AEA Training for Repairman Certificate

News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

Navi AI is now working with leading U.S. flight training organizations

AI Deployment Aims To Maximize Flight Training Debriefs

Amy Wilder

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.

European Spotlight with Aero Friedrichshafen 2026

More In Training and Workforce

Global Aviation Orders Five Elixir+ Training Aircraft

French manufacturer displays new version of two-seat trainer at Aero Friedrichshafen show

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FAA's Part 108 rules exposes gaps in drone talent pipeline

AINsight: What Sets Bizav Graduates Apart Early?

Those that are self-aware and prepared will succeed

Chicago Launching Barrington Irving STEM Initiative

Program introduces students to FBO and MRO aviation career opportunities

FAA Recognizes AEA Training for Repairman Certificate

CAET program is an acceptable alternative method of compliance

AI Deployment Aims To Maximize Flight Training Debriefs

Navi AI is now working with leading U.S. flight training organizations

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Air New Zealand’s Marren reflects on aviation connecting people

Angel Flight West Sets May 1 Gala, Names Four Honorees

Cutter Aviation, Huntsman Cancer Institute among inspiration honorees

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