Ex-RAF Chief Sir Stephen Hillier to Lead UK Civil Aviation Authority
Former RAF boss Sir Stephen Hillier has been picked as the new chair of the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced the appointment today (7 May 2020), tasking Hillier with steering the aviation sector through the COVID-19 chaos and future challenges.
Leading Aviation Through Crisis and Beyond
Hillier’s top priority will be managing the industry’s recovery amid plunging passenger numbers and tackling consumer headaches like the refund backlog from cancelled flights. He’ll also shape the CAA’s role as the UK breaks away from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), preparing to certify new aviation tech and propose fresh safety laws.
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. Sir Stephen’s incredible knowledge and experience in aviation will be invaluable.”
Green Skies and Next-Gen Pilots
Hillier will drive the government’s push to greenify and modernise flying, pushing innovative tech to keep the UK at the aviation forefront. He’ll back STEM programmes aimed at inspiring young pilots and engineers, helping grassroots aviation thrive as the launchpad for future talent.
Aviation Veteran at the Helm
- Head of the RAF from 2016 to 2019
- Nearly 40 years in the RAF
- Qualified pilot and flight instructor
- Experienced in managing Defence equipment and infrastructure contracts
Sir Stephen will start his new role as Non-executive Chair of the CAA on 1 August 2020, pending confirmation after a parliamentary hearing later this year.
Sir Stephen Hillier said: “I am delighted to help lead the CAA through enormous challenges: maintaining our excellent safety record and promoting the UK’s world-leading aviation sector while dealing with COVID-19 and our departure from EASA.”
Farewell to Dame Deirdre Hutton
Sir Stephen replaces Dame Deirdre Hutton DBE, who steps down after 11 years at the helm. Dame Deirdre steered the CAA through major crises including the Icelandic volcano eruption, Monarch and Thomas Cook collapses, and revolutionised safety regulation and consumer focus.
Dame Deirdre Hutton said: “It has been a great privilege to chair the UK CAA. I’m proud of how we revolutionised safety regulation and put consumers at the heart of what we do. I’m delighted to handover to Sir Stephen who I’m confident will steer the organisation successfully through the challenges ahead.”
