UK aviation regulator the CAA has appointed Iain Stewart CBE as the new chairman of the ATIPAC consumer rights committee.

The appointment will see him championing the rights of passengers against company insolvency.

He started in the role on  August 1 ahead of his first committee meeting that is due to take place on August 12.

The committee, established by the Secretary of State for Transport, advises the CAA and government on the financial protection arrangements for air travellers and customers of travel organisers.

ATIPAC is formed of experts from the travel industry, including airlines, as well as several independent members.

With consumer protection regime ATOL reform under consideration and the sector experiencing considerable changes and innovations, Stewart will lead the committee to provide “informed and objective advice on this vital area of consumer protection”.

He said: “It is a huge honour to be appointed as the new ATIPAC chair in succession to Sandra Webber who has ably led it over the last seven years.

“Ensuring that the ATOL scheme and other financial protections remain fit for purpose is vital for confidence in the sector. The ways in which consumers purchase their flights and holidays is diverse and constantly evolving, especially with new technologies.

“I look forward to drawing on the deep pool of experience and expertise of the Committee’s members and providing sound and valued advice to the CAA and Ministers.”

Stewart is a former Member of Parliament and a former Government Minister. He was a member of the Transport Select Committee (2010 to 2013 and 2015 to 2018) and Chaired the Committee from November 2022 to May 2024.

He currently holds two advisory roles as an Independent Member for Transport Scotland’s Audit & Risk Committee and is Adviser and Secretary for Stansted Airport Consultative Committee. He was awarded a CBE for political and public service in 2024.