Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • CAA appoints Sophie O’Sullivan as interim Head of GA Unit

Aerospace

CAA appoints Sophie O’Sullivan as interim Head of GA Unit

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced today that it has appointed Sophie O’Sullivan as the interim Head of its General Aviation (GA) Unit whilst Rachel Gardner-Poole is on secondment at the UK Space Agency.

Image courtesy CAA

Sophie (above) is currently the Head of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems department having set up this unit in 2018 and will now run the GAU alongside her current role for the duration of the seven-month secondment period. Sophie’s appointment is effective immediately.

Rob Bishton, Group Director of Safety and Airspace at the UK Civil Aviation Authority said: “In light of Rachel Gardner-Poole taking on a secondment with the UK Space Agency, I have asked Sophie O’Sullivan to take over the running of the General Aviation Unit throughout the secondment period. Sophie brings a wealth of experience in unmanned aircraft systems, strategy, risk, better regulation and a previous career in the private sector working in a mix of strategy, change management and consultancy roles.”

Advertisement
ODU RT

Sophie said, “I am really looking forward to working with the dedicated and professional colleagues in the General Aviation Unit. I do believe there will be opportunities to understand how the UAS and GAU communities can work together on some of their common challenges – encouraging safety reporting from our communities, promulgating safety information and electronic conspicuity.”

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
Returning to STEM after career break becomes harder than ever

Aerospace Defence Security Space

Returning to STEM after career break becomes harder than ever

4 February 2026

Returning to STEM industries after a career break is now harder than ever, according to new research by STEM Returners, with bias against gender, age, ethnicity and a lack of recent experience penalising highly qualified people from getting a job.

Aston University and Aurrigo to enhance AVs with AI

Aerospace

Aston University and Aurrigo to enhance AVs with AI

4 February 2026

Aston University has joined forces with Aurrigo, to develop AI to make its airport autonomous vehicles (AVs) fleet even more efficient, responsive and sustainable.

IBA and STS launch asset management and advisory partnership

Aerospace

IBA and STS launch asset management and advisory partnership

4 February 2026

IBA Group Limited and Shannon Technical Services (STS) have announced a new partnership designed to meet increasing demand from aircraft lessors, airlines and MROs for integrated aircraft data, advisory and technical support services.

UK-Japan partnerships advance quantum and future connectivity tech

Aerospace Defence Security Space

UK-Japan partnerships advance quantum and future connectivity tech

4 February 2026

Joint investments will advance quantum technology, boost digital connectivity and strengthen network resilience against cyber threats.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Tigerair Taiwan orders four A321neo aircraft

Aerospace

Tigerair Taiwan orders four A321neo aircraft

4 February 2026

Tigerair Taiwan has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for four A321neo aircraft, marking the airline’s first order for this type.

Cranfield steps up in 2026 QS Sustainability Rankings

Aerospace

Cranfield steps up in 2026 QS Sustainability Rankings

3 February 2026

Cranfield University has strengthened its global position in the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026 – now ranking in the top 10% of universities worldwide.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner