The Department of Economic Development has announced that it is seeking a new Director of Civil Aviation as Hartley Elder, the current Director, is to retire later this year.
 
Minister for Economic Development John Shimmin MHK commented:
 
‘I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Department to thank Hartley for his hard work and dedication to the Isle of Man.
 
‘Since taking over as Director, Hartley has ensured the continuation of the Isle of Man Aircraft Registry’s success and high standards, which have enabled the Isle of Man to become a world leader in the provision of aviation services.
 
‘While we will be sad to see Hartley depart his role as Director of Civil Aviation, he leaves the Aircraft Registry in a very healthy state which under his leadership has doubled in terms of both the number of aircraft on the register and the economic benefits the register brings to the Island.’
 
Hartley commented:
 
‘I have enjoyed my time living on the Isle of Man and will remember my team in the Aircraft Registry and many friends and colleagues on the Island with great fondness.’
 
The Department has already started the recruitment process for a new Director.
 
The Minister continued:
 
‘The new Director will have the benefit of joining a fast-growing registry that it is widely regarded as the best corporate aircraft registry in the world. With the recruitment of further staff due and a new IT system being implemented, this demonstrates the Department remains committed to ensuring that the Isle of Man remains a world leader in aircraft registration and aviation services.’