The former head of the Royal Air Force is to become the new chair of the CAA.
Sir Stephen Hillier has been selected by transport secretary Grant Shapps to take over from Dame Deirdre Hutton, who is stepping down after 11 years in the role.
Hillier is due to start work on August 1 following a pre-appointment scrutiny hearing by the transport select committee.
In his new role, Hillier will oversee the CAA as the UK leaves the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This will include preparing the organisation to certify the design of new aviation products and formulating proposals for new aviation safety legislation.
He has also been tasked with modernising the aviation industry, including improving its efficiency and sustainability, encouraging technology development and encouraging young people to pursue roles in the sector.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “This is an extremely challenging time for the aviation industry, unlike anything we have faced, so the need for an inspiring and experienced leader is vital. I’d like to thank Dame Deirdre Hutton for her support and leadership over the last 11 years and to welcome Sir Stephen Hillier.
“Sir Stephen’s incredible knowledge and experience in aviation will be invaluable during this period and I’m confident he will excel addressing the challenges presented by Covid-19. I am also excited to work with him and support the Civil Aviation Authority’s new vision once the industry is back on its feet.”
Hillier was the head of the RAF from 2016 to 2019, having served for almost 40 years. He is a qualified pilot and flying instructor.
He said: “I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to help lead the Civil Aviation Authority through the enormous challenges which lie ahead: maintaining our excellent safety record and promoting the UK’s world-leading aviation sector, while dealing with the consequences of Covid-19 and guiding us through our departure from EASA.
Hutton said: “It has been a great privilege and an honour to chair the UK Civil Aviation Authority board for the past 11 years. It has been an extraordinary period starting with the closure of pan-European airspace due to the Icelandic volcano and ending with the current challenges of Covid-19.
“The organisation’s ability to deal with crisis situations is exemplary and I am deeply grateful to all my colleagues for their focus and determination.”