As a New Era Dawns, Leadership Looks Back for Inspiration to Move Forward

The British Civil Aviation Authority has begun celebrating its 50th anniversary since its inception as a standalone government agency in 1971. 

Until the formation of the Civil Aviation Authority, aerospace matters were left to the Board of Trade and Air Registration Board. The expansion of commercial aviation throughout the postwar era made it clear that keeping the reins on the industry would require far greater resources than the Boards could muster. Sir Stephen Hillier, chair of the CAA, looked back at the journey and promised the best is yet to come. 

“It's been an incredible 50 years for the Civil Aviation Authority, and indeed for the whole aerospace industry. I'm proud that the organization has been able to sustain its position at the forefront of aviation and aerospace regulation for this extraordinary half-century, promoting safety, enjoying the trust and confidence of those that we regulate, and ensuring that we deliver the best possible outcomes for consumers and the industry. 

Aerospace has always been at the leading edge of technology, and I know that it will continue to be throughout the next 50 years.  As the UK’s aviation and space regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority is proud and excited to play its part in enabling and securing that future." 

FMI: www.caa.co.uk