Moriarty who has worked for the organisation for more than ten years, including five at the helm, said he was leaving to begin “the next chapter” of his career in the private sector and deepening his work in charity and social housing.

“I am confident [the CAA] will continue to do so given the strength of talent and leadership within the organisation and the commitment of its people,” he said.

CAA chair Sir Stephen Hillier thanked Moriarty for his “outstanding leadership, hard work and dedication… 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,” said Hillier.

He added the recruitment process to replace Moriarty would “shortly begin”.