In a move that was widely expected by the aviation industry Shane Carmody has been formally appointed as the new Director of Aviation Safety at CASA.

Speaking at the AOPA Pacific Forum at the 2017 Avalon Airshow, Mr Carmody admitted he’s not a pilot but a career public servant who has administered public departments larger than CASA and understands what is required in such a department with a high level of stakeholder engagement – and feels more than capable to hold the position.

“I will do what I can to make CASA a better organisation and better regulator. Not only does CASA need to be better regulator but the relationship with industry needs to be better. There are two sides to this puzzle, certainly from my point of view, and helping the organisation get better at what it does is a pretty important role for me,” he said.

“There’s an awful lot in general aviation bucket which I think is quite a challenge.”

The chairman of CASA’s Board Mr Jeff Boyd announced the five year appointment today, and praised Mr Carmody, who has been acting in the role since October 2016.

“Mr Carmody brings a wealth of senior executive experience to the position of Director of Aviation Safety at CASA,” Mr Boyd said.

“The new DAS was chosen after an international search for the best available person to further develop CASA as a world leader in aviation safety regulation.

“CASA’s Board has full confidence that under the continued leadership of Shane Carmody, Australia’s excellent aviation safety record can be further enhanced.”

The board of AOPA congratulate Mr Carmody on his appointment and look forward to working with him in an open and co-operative spirit as we strive to reform general aviation regulations in Australia.