Virgin Blue appoints new Head of Safety Systems

Virgin Blue has appointed industry veteran, John Bartlett, as the new Head of Safety Systems.

The position was made vacant due to the upcoming departure of Virgin Blue's existing Head of Safety Systems, Bruce Byron, who is leaving the airline to take up the position of Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

Virgin Blue Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey said "Bruce's outstanding work in implementing safety management systems at Virgin Blue has ensured we have a strong platform on which to move forward.

We welcome John to the Virgin Blue team and are confident his 30 years experience in the aviation industry will compliment the solid foundations left by Bruce."

John Bartlett joins Virgin Blue after spending three years as General Manager Airlines for the Civil Aviation Authority in New Zealand.

Prior to his position with the CAA, John spent 15 years working with Ansett New Zealand in various key roles, including Flight Operations Manager.

John will take up his position with Virgin Blue in February 2004.