Civil Aviation Authority CEO Richard Moriarty has announced he will leave next spring after five years in the job.

He said he plans to take up a new role in the private sector and deepen his contribution to the social housing and charity sectors, after spending more than 10 years at the CAA.

CAA Chair Sir Stephen Hilliar said: “On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Richard for his outstanding leadership, hard work and dedication to both the Civil Aviation Authority and to aerospace through one of the most challenging times in our recent history.

“Richard will leave a tremendous legacy at the Civil Aviation Authority, not only in the strong values which guide everything that we do, but also his commitment to making aviation, aerospace and the Civil Aviation Authority the very best that they can be.

“We will shortly begin the process of identifying Richard’s successor, whilst ensuring that we maintain continuity in the delivery of the Civil Aviation Authority’s vital role throughout the transition period and beyond.”