Sir Stephen Hillier has been selected as the new chair of the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
He was chosen by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps following an open competition to replace Dame Deirdre Hutton who steps down after 11 years.
The role is subject to a pre-appointment scrutiny hearing by the Transport Select Committee, which will take place later this year. Once confirmed, Sir Stephen is expected to start work on August 1.
Shapps said he was the candidate best suited to lead the CAA through the Covid-19 response and recovery, which means ‘balancing airlines’ immediate needs resulting from reduced passenger demand with consumer issues such as the refund backlog due to cancelled services’.
"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," said Shapps.
"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 head of the RAF from 2016 to 2019, having served in the RAF for almost 40 years.
He is a qualified pilot and flying instructor and was previously the Ministry of Defence’s principal military customer for equipment and infrastructure.
