I used to Down load pics from my Cannon to My ipad no problems,I now have IPad Air,the chargers have changed. I suppose I now need a new adapter to download pics?

Apple are arseholes for changing their chargers.

You can pick up an iPad camera connection kit on ebay for less than 2 pounds. (free international delivery)
My brother had the same problem, just ordered one for him.

And the more people keep buying their products when they do this, the more Apple will continue to stitch their customers.

Vote with your wallet if you're that annoyed.

Can you upload (or copy if using an sd card or similar) to a PC instead, then you could just copy over wifi/bluetooth or via a cloud service?

I'm not an apple fan but tbh they have changed their connector once in almost 6 years and there are technical reasons for doing it. There are converters available though I have no idea how well they work.

Do you have a PC or laptop? If so, sync them from that.

I've had an iPad since day one and never needed the camera adapter. I did however buy one this week just so that I can transfer photos when I'm out and about.

The camera adapter is a luxury, not a necessity.