Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority Taps Former Military Aviator

Mr. Mark Skidmore AM has been appointed as the new Director of Aviation Safety at Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The chairman of CASA’s Board Dr. Allan Hawke AC announced the five year appointment October 30th.

Skidmore has more than 30 years experience in both civilian and military aviation. “Mark Skidmore brings a wealth of aviation experience to the position of Director of Aviation Safety at CASA,” Dr. Hawke said. “Mark has worked in civilian aviation as a test pilot, business development manager and company director. He has led large teams of operational, technical and administrative staff, providing leadership for operational, training and support functions.

Beginning as a pilot in the Royal Australian Air Force in the early 1980s, Skidmore led RAAF research and development squadrons and was promoted to Australia’s Air Commander, holding oversight for Australia’s air operations, and reaching the rank of Air Vice Marshal before retiring in 2012. The new Director of Aviation Safety 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 leadership of Mark Skidmore Australia’s proud aviation safety record will be protected and enhanced," Dr Hawke continued. "Mark is committed to working with the aviation industry and the general community to achieve the best possible safety outcomes. He understands safety is a shared responsibility with the aviation industry and will encourage and support the industry while at the same time ensuring the interests of the travelling public are protected. Mark is part of the general aviation community, owning and regularly flying a Globe GC-1B Swift.

“Recognizing Mark needs time to finalize his current commitments he will take up his appointment as Director of Aviation Safety as soon as possible."

FMi: www.casa.gov.au