Amid the review into the August bank holiday NATS air traffic control meltdown, a former pilot has been appointed as the new chief executive of the UK’s aviation regulator.
Rob Bishton will take up the chief executive role at the Civil Aviation Authority (UK-CAA) from October 21. Bishton had been serving as interim CEO since early April 2023, following the departure of long-time chief Richard Moriarty in spring.
About his association with the regulatory body, he joined the CAA in the year 2014, and was employed with easyJet as chief pilot and head of aircraft operations, prior to this.
Among other major roles , in October 2019 , the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) made appointment of Rob Bishton as its new Group Director of Safety and Airspace Regulation.
Among the immediate challenges faced by the new boss will be to lead the CAA through its independent review of this summers’ air traffic control disaster at NATs, the UK’s airspace operator.
It comes as the regulator said it will consider “airline and airport costs” in its independent review of the events of the August 28 bank holiday.
There was major disruption to flights across UK airports on August 28 after ATC provider National Air Traffic Services (Nats) suffered a technical glitch while processing a flight plan.
The combined cost to airlines in providing refunds, re-bookings, hotel rooms and refreshments to affected passengers has been estimated at around £100 million by industry body the International Air Transport Association (Iata).
The inquiry will be led by Jeff Halliwell, who has served as a chief executive and non-executive director in roles across the private and public sector. A final report into the ATC failure with recommendations will be provided to the CAA and the Secretary of State for Transport before publication.
Former CAA chief executive Richard Moriarty stepped down earlier this year after five years in the role, that paved the way for Rob Bishton getting closer to the top job.
UK Space Agency congratulated the new chief of CAA , and said,
Congratulations to Rob Bishton, who has been appointed the new Chief Executive of the UK-CAA ! We look forward to working closely together as we gear up for more launch activity from the UK, building our position as Europe’s leading launch destination.
Mr Bishton said:
“I am delighted to be taking on the role of chief executive. The Civil Aviation Authority plays a vital role in shaping the future of aviation and aerospace.“I am committed to working closely with our stakeholders to ensure that the industry remains safe, innovative and competitive.
“It is our commitment to deliver for consumers, who rightly expect the highest standards from our industry. " “Working alongside all of our dedicated people, our fantastic executive team and the board, I look forward to building on the Civil Aviation Authority’s legacy of excellence on both the domestic and global stages.”
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:
“It’s vital that the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority has strong leadership to manage and regulate one of the most competitive and innovative aviation sectors in the world, so it’s great to welcome Rob Bishton as the new chief executive officer.
“Rob has been a valuable member of the Civil Aviation Authority since 2014 and has over 30 years of aviation experience.“It is welcome news to see that work continues to help deliver greater consumer protections, regulate the sector and ensure future innovation is done safely and securely.”
