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

Gama Aviation is now providing handling and other FBO services at the RAF Northolt (EGWU) air base in London. On Friday, the company announced that it started operations on September 1, adding to its FBO network that also includes facilities at Glasgow in Scotland, Jersey in the Channel Islands, and Sharjah in the UAE.&nbsp;
According to Gama, it will invest in improvements to the existing FBO, previously operated by Universal Aviation and known as the Northolt Jet Centre. These will include refurbishment of passenger lounges and dedicated crew areas.
RAF Northolt is open for aircraft arrivals and departures from Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., and between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on the weekend. The airfield, which is 6 miles north of London Heathrow Airport (EGLL) and 15 miles west of the center of the UK capital, has a 5,552-foot runway with an instrument approach.
Universal Aviation previously ran the FBO at Northolt for six years and during its tenure managed to increase the operating hours and traffic levels there. Gama subsequently won a competitive bidding process to take over the site.
Gama, which is headquartered at Farnborough Airport (EGLF), is now completing the design for its planned new hangar and FBO at Jersey Airport (EGJJ), with these facilities expected to open in 2028. The company recently inaugurated its Gama Aviation Business Aviation Centre at Sharjah International Airport (OMSJ).
“The addition of RAF Northolt represents a significant next step, giving us a distinctive gateway serving London and strengthening the connectivity of our wider network,” Tom Murphy, Gama’s managing director for aviation services, said.&nbsp;“I believe RAF Northolt has all the qualities our clients value, including location, security, privacy, and discretion. Our focus will be on bringing these qualities together with Gama Aviation’s operational expertise and highly personalized approach to client service.”
The Royal Air Force’s 32 Squadron is based at Northolt. It operates head-of-state and UK government flights.

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