The DfT’s aviation director Ben Smith told the Airlines 2022 conference: “What ministers want to focus on is ensuring consumer confidence. There have been suggestions the CAA’s powers do not go far enough and the consultation is asking if they should be strengthened.”
The government plans to review how the CAA operates in relation to consumer complaints after concerns about how airlines behaved over refunds during the pandemic.
CAA chief executive Richard Moriarty said more powers were needed to avoid lengthy battles with airlines on behalf of consumers: “I think the CAA does need modernised powers. It is just not consistent to take four years to get redress.”
He said a minimum course of action should be to bring the UK regulator’s powers in line with other countries. “Compared with other nations, ours are looking quite outdated.”
Moriarty added he wanted aviation to be seen as a strategic asset for the UK and for the CAA to have more of a role in issues like sustainable aviation fuel development.
He added the industry had become reticent because of the sustainability issue. “I really want us to be very proud. I’m hoping that in three to five years’ time we are inspiring the next generation to come into aviation because they see that potential for green growth.”
The government’s Aviation Council, set up following the pandemic, is due to meet next Monday with new ministers in place. It will be co-chaired by Gatwick boss Stewart Wingate and transport minister Baroness Vere. Its aim is to work with the industry to plot a way ahead following the pandemic.
Smith said: “I would expect some of the issues will be around recovery from Covid, but I would like to see it accepting there has been a difficult period and looking ahead to what the industry and government can do together.”
