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 Air Charter Association (The ACA) has launched a Seal of Accreditation process to indicate that its member companies have been assessed as meeting the standards of professionalism set out in the industry group’s Code of Practice. All new member companies are subject to accreditation checks, which are largely based on endorsement by existing members to verify that companies are reliable and operate legally.
To be considered for membership, companies must be able to show they have been trading for at least 12 months. Those applying within two years need to be supported by managers or directors from two current corporate members, and also present two independent trade references. Charter aircraft operators need references from brokers they have recently worked with and, conversely, brokers need endorsements from operators.
“Referees must affirm they have worked with the applicant company and found them to be trustworthy, honest, and professional,” a spokesperson for The ACA explained after the program was announced last week. “They believe them to uphold the highest industry standards and are confident they comply with The ACA <a href="https://www.theaircharterassociation.aero/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ACA-Code-of-Practice-04_21.pdf">Code of Practice</a> and, to the best of their knowledge, have not been involved in any illegal practices.”
The ACA’s Code of Practice requires that companies operate in a legal, ethical, and professional manner, behaving in a transparent and fair way as well as “respecting and investing in the development and well-being of their employees.” The document also sets out expectations for how companies manage contracts, as well as trip quotes and commissions, and how services are marketed to clients. All existing ACA members hold the Seal of Accreditation.&nbsp;
<h2>Legal and Transparent</h2>
Accredited members are required to conduct business legally in any territory in which they operate. “If there are any concerns about whether a company is misrepresenting their services or seeking to provide charter services without the necessary certifications, this is investigated thoroughly during the initial accreditation process, and operators provide their licensing, insurance, and airworthiness documentation for review,” the spokesperson added.
“We are proud to launch The ACA’s Seal of Accreditation, which has been designed to invoke a sense of security and safety for clients,” said The ACA’s chief executive, Glenn Hogben. “Instantly recognizable, the Seal represents excellence and professionalism in all areas, helping potential clients identify accredited member companies and book charter flights securely. As strong advocates for educating the public on the dangers of illegal charter, we believe it is important to provide clear information, to support passengers to fly safely every day.”
The Seal of Accreditation process typically takes around four weeks to complete. Members are expected to maintain the required standards and can be reported to the association for any alleged breaches, which will be investigated and could result in expulsion from the group.
According to The ACA, the Seal of Accreditation is a valid supplement to “single point in time” audits conducted by companies such as Wyvern and Argus. This is because it provides an external “market-based” validation from industry peers.

News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

Seal of Accreditation Vets Standards for Air Charter Flight Providers

The Air Charter Association members must behave in a legal and transparent way 

The Air Charter Association launched a Seal of Accreditation process in which members must be endorsed by other companies and comply with a Code of Practice.

Seal of Accreditation Vets Standards for Air Charter Firms

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Amy Wilder

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.

First Pilatus PC-12 NG delivered in April with four co-owners

South Africa’s SoterJets Launches Fractional Program

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Chad Trautvetter

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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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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