Budge will take up his new role on Monday 1 December, reporting into Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer. Besides his role as head of Atol at the CAA, Budge is also a non-executive director of CAA (International).

Prior to joining the CAA in 2012 as a senior manager in aviation and travel finance, Budge worked an earlier career in corporate finance.

Budge said: "Having seen first-hand how Abta builds consumer confidence, supports its members, and represents the industry, I’m excited to help contribute to that impact.

"I look forward to working with our members and partners to support their growth, promote best practice, and help build a sustainable and trusted future for travellers and businesses alike.”

Tanzer added: “Michael is well known by many in the UK travel sector and has a compelling track record in travel finance. He will bring much to Abta in his new role with us, helping to ensure that we deliver for our members.

"He joins at an exciting time, with positive consumer perceptions of the Abta brand at a high, and with much going on to support our members to trade even more successfully.”