Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of the United Kingdom officially launched on 1 April 1972 under the Civil Aviation Act 1971. Its creation marked a pivotal shift: civil aviation oversight moved from the Board of Trade—which had managed the sector since the early 20th century—to a dedicated, independent regulatory body.
The CAA was designed to focus specifically on three pillars: aviation safety, economic regulation, and consumer protection. This specialization allowed for more responsive, expert governance of the UK's growing aviation industry.
Today, the CAA continues to regulate airlines, airports, air traffic control, and consumer rights—upholding standards that keep UK skies among the world's safest.