Minister Regev: “These are professional appointments that will strengthen the civil aviation system, safety, and the management of national bodies for the benefit of Israeli citizens.”
The government approved today (Sunday) the appointment of Maj. Gen. (res.) Yiftach Ron-Tal as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Airports Authority (RA”T). The appointment is for a term of four years.
Maj. Gen. (res.) Yiftach Ron-Tal brings with him many years of experience in public service, management of large organizations, and key positions in the security and civilian systems. Among his previous roles, he served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Israel Electric Corporation, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Israel Ports Company, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Model Security Company, as well as senior command positions in the IDF, including Commander of the Ground Forces.
The search committee noted that Ron-Tal is a candidate with suitable qualifications, extensive managerial and professional experience in the fields of infrastructure and safety, and that he is suited to the challenges facing the Airports Authority, including managing a complex aviation system, maintaining a high level of safety, and promoting the development of civil aviation in Israel.
During the government meeting, the appointment of Ofer Vakinin as Director of the Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Unit in the Ministry of Transport and Road Safety was also approved. The Unit is responsible for investigating accidents and safety incidents in civil aviation, in accordance with international standards, with the aim of drawing systemic lessons, improving the level of safety, and preventing recurrence of incidents.
Vakinin has extensive professional experience in aviation and air safety, and possesses in-depth knowledge of civil aviation safety systems, aviation regulation, and safety investigation management. In his previous roles, he was involved in the management, supervision, and investigation of aviation safety incidents, and he brings practical knowledge and accumulated experience working with aviation bodies, regulators, and international organizations.
Minister of Transport and Road Safety, Brig. Gen. (res.) Miri Regev: “I welcome the approval of the appointment of Maj. Gen. (res.) Yiftach Ron-Tal as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Airports Authority and the appointment of the Director of the Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Unit. These are professional and responsible appointments that will strengthen the civil aviation system, safety, and the management of national bodies for the benefit of Israeli citizens.”
Director General of the Ministry of Transport and Road Safety, Moshe Ben Zaken: “The Ministry of Transport continues to implement Minister Regev’s policy to strengthen the managerial, supervisory, and safety backbone, on land, at sea, and in the air. The combination of experienced leadership at the Airports Authority along with strengthening the safety investigation system is a significant step towards maintaining high standards in the aviation industry.”