“Mark had an outstanding military aviation career, beginning as a pilot in the Royal Australian Air Force in the early 1980s. He led RAAF research and development squadrons and was promoted to Australia’s Air Commander, holding oversight for Australia’s air operations, and reaching the rank of Air Vice Marshal before retiring in 2012. The new Director of Aviation Safety was chosen after an international search for the best available person to further develop CASA as a world leader in aviation safety regulation.”
“CASA’s Board has full confidence that under the leadership of Mark Skidmore Australia’s proud aviation safety record will be protected and enhanced. Mark is committed to working with the aviation industry and the general community to achieve the best possible safety outcomes. He understands safety is a shared responsibility with the aviation industry and will encourage and support the industry while at the same time ensuring the interests of the travelling public are protected. Mark is part of the general aviation community, owning and regularly flying a Globe GC-1B Swift.
“Recognizing Mark needs time to finalize his current commitments he will take up his appointment as director of aviation safety as soon as possible.”
Mark Skidmore career highlights:
2013: Aviation consultant.
2013: Director Flight Operations Raytheon Australia.
2001-2012: Royal Australian Air Force – from 2008 Air Commander Australia; previously: Joint Force Air Component Commander including director of the Coalition Combined Air Operations Center in the Middle East Area, director Combined Air and Space Operations Center, director Operational Requirements, New Air Combat Capability Commander, Aircraft Research and Development Unit
1998-1999: Senior Test Pilot and Business Development Executive Raytheon Australia.
1983-1997: Royal Australian Air Force – pilot and test pilot