Massey Aviation Chief appointed as Independent Reviewer under Civil Aviation Act

The Acting Minister of Transport recently announced the appointment of Ashok Poduval, Chief Executive of Te Kura Rererangi School of Aviation at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, as one of three independent reviewers under Aotearoa New Zealand’s newly enacted Civil Aviation Act. The appointments mark a significant step in strengthening transparency and accountability within the country’s aviation regulatory framework.

The independent review function, established as part of the Civil Aviation Act that came into force on 5 April 2025, is designed to offer aviation sector participants a more accessible alternative to court proceedings when contesting decisions that could impact their livelihoods. The review mechanism is expected to serve as a fair and efficient forum for resolving disputes within the industry.

Acting Transport Minister Hon James Meager expressed confidence in the appointees when he made the announcement.

“All three appointees are highly skilled professionals, with decades of aviation and leadership experience between them across both the public sector and the private sector. Ashok Poduval is a highly experienced aviation professional who has served as Chief Executive of the Massey University School of Aviation since 2005 and was most recently the President of the Aviation Industry Association.”

The reviewers have been appointed for three-year terms, expiring on 31 March 2028. 

“The new function offers opportunities that will make it easier and more affordable for aviation sector participants in New Zealand to access fair outcomes and challenge decisions that have a significant impact on their livelihoods, such as cancelling or suspending a pilot’s licence,” Mr Meager says.

“The independent review function provides an alternative option for people wanting to appeal an aviation decision through the courts and is intended to enhance transparency and accountability within the aviation regulatory framework.

“Being able to have decisions reviewed independently will now mean those people won’t incur these costs and delays, and they’ll have the opportunity for a quick, cost-effective determination.”

In response to his appointment, Mr Poduval has stepped down as President of the Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand to avoid any conflict of interest. However, he will continue to serve as the Head of Massey’s School of Aviation—a role he says complements his new responsibilities.

“I believe my work in this role will further enhance the reputation of Massey’s School of Aviation. I am honoured that the Minister has appointed me to this role, and I am looking forward to adding value to the aviation industry in New Zealand.”