Simeon Brown Announces New Leadership for Civil Aviation Authority to Boost Efficiency and Safety

Minister Brown praised Darrow for his extensive experience in business, governance, and leadership, which he believes will complement the aviation and management expertise of the other board members.

Transport Minister Simeon Brown has unveiled a revamped board for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), aiming to enhance delivery and efficiency in New Zealand’s aviation sector.

Mark Darrow has been appointed as the new Chair of the CAA, with Darin Cusack stepping in as Deputy Chair. Joining the board are new members Terry Murdoch, Simon Craddock, and Louise Pengelly, who will serve a three-year term ending on July 31, 2027. They will work alongside current board members Jill Hatchwell and Charles Spillane.

Minister Brown praised Darrow for his extensive experience in business, governance, and leadership, which he believes will complement the aviation and management expertise of the other board members. The refreshed board is expected to drive improvements in the CAA's operations, including faster approval times for aviation certificates and reduced waiting periods for Aviation Security services.

“The new appointments will help the CAA to better manage and oversee New Zealand’s aviation system, ensuring it remains safe and secure while also supporting the sector’s growth and integration of emerging technologies,” Brown said. “Our goal is to address the current delays in processing times for aviation licenses, which have become a significant concern.”

The CAA will focus on implementing a new direction to streamline operations and enhance efficiencies, particularly in reducing the average processing time for Part 102 unmanned aircraft operator approvals, which has currently reached 11 months.

The Government is committed to delivering efficient frontline services, and the new board members are tasked with improving the CAA’s performance to support economic growth. Minister Brown also expressed gratitude to outgoing Chair Janice Fredric and board members Alma Hong and Hon Harry Duynhoven for their contributions, and he looks forward to the new leadership’s impact on the CAA.