Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced a new chair for the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
 
Sir Stephen Hillier, the former head of the Royal Air Force, is his preferred candidate to “Lead the aviation industry through Covid-19 and future challenges presented by the virus.”

Amongst his many tasks he will need to balance airlines’ immediate requirement needs resulting from reduced passenger demand, with consumer issues such as the refund backlog due to cancelled services.

Hillier will be expected to support the government’s vision to decarbonise and modernise the industry, and to inspire young people into aviation careers.

Sir Stephen will oversee the enhancement of the CAA’s reputation as a leading aviation regulator, 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 aviation safety legislation.

Hillier will also build on the Government’s vision to innovate and modernise the aviation industry, making flying greener and more efficient, as well as driving cutting-edge technologies to ensure the UK maintains its position as a world leader in aviation.

Minister Shapps said: “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.”

www.caa.co.uk