Former Republic Airlines CEO Bryan Bedford has been confirmed as the Administrator of the US Federal Aviation Administration in a full vote of the U.S. Senate, becoming the role’s sixth incumbent (acting or full) in the last five years.
Bedford was confirmed in a largely party lines vote of 53-43 on Wednesday (9 July). Many hope he will remain in post for the duration of the full five-year term, giving the FAA some much-needed continuity.
Although FAA Administrators have historically served out the role even through changes of Presidential administration, neither of the last two full holders of the post has completed their tenure.
Stephen Dixon resigned early, possibly as a result of the whistleblower controversy over actions he took while at Delta Airlines, and Michael Whitaker resigned from the role on the eve of Donald Trump’s second inauguration.
Bedford’s appointment was given an enthusiastic vote of confidence by the U.S. Regional Airline Association (RAA).
“I am confident that Bryan will bring his unwavering safety values to the FAA, where they will strongly benefit the flying public. Similarly, I believe his collaborative and productive approach will empower a strong partnership with Congress as you work together to advance your shared goals of safety, resilience, and excellence in the American skies. Bryan’s deep understanding of aviation’s complexities, extensive industry expertise, and unwavering dedication to aviation safety make him an outstanding choice to lead the FAA at this critical time,” said Faye Malarkey Black, President and CEO of the RAA.
Bedford’s confirmation has been approved across the industry, with only one note of dissent from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).
News shared from our sister publication RotorHub
Bryan Bedford has been confirmed as FAA Administrator.
