Heapy said Abta had a vital role to play in travel’s recovery from the Covid crisis.
He will take up his role as a director of the board on 25 March.
"I’m delighted to welcome Steve to Abta’s board of directors," said Abta chair Alistair Rowland.
"He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience of the UK travel industry and joins us at a critical time for the sector.
"I, the rest of the board and Abta’s senior leadership team, look forward to working with him."
Heapy added: "There has never been a time like this in travel, and Abta has a vital role to play, both in leading a united voice for the industry and in being a trusted badge of high standards for customers.
"I welcome the opportunity to contribute to taking the organisation, and the industry, forward."
Jet2holidays has been an Abta member since February 2009.
