In a fresh move to bolster aviation leadership, President Joe Biden has put forward Michael Whitaker as his choice to head the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This announcement came on Thursday, directly from the White House.

Whitaker’s Aviation Background

No stranger to the aviation world, Whitaker boasts an extensive resume. He has previously held the position of deputy administrator of the FAA, and according to the White House’s statement, he is also “currently the chief operating officer of Supernal, a Hyundai Motor Group company designing an electric advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicle.”

His experience doesn’t stop there. Whitaker’s aviation journey includes roles at giant corporations like InterGlobe Enterprises, United Airlines, and Trans World Airlines. Apart from these impressive credentials, Whitaker is a trained private pilot and holds a law degree.

This nomination is timely. Congress is in the thick of discussions about renewing FAA funding. Previous nominee, Phil Washington, faced considerable opposition, eventually pulling out of the nomination in March. Concerns over Washington’s limited aviation experience and potential legal hurdles, combined with inadequate support from Democrats, halted his nomination in its tracks.

Michael Whitaker: Biden'S New Faa Choice

Industry’s Reaction

The aviation industry, along with various stakeholders, welcomed Biden’s choice with open arms. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA President, Sara Nelson, didn’t mince words: “We congratulate Mike Whitaker on his nomination for FAA Administrator. We support the President’s decision and call on the Senate to move to swift confirmation.”

Furthermore, United Airlines, where Whitaker dedicated 15 years in diverse roles, was quick to laud the decision. Their spokesperson, Sam Coleman, emphasized, “Mike has deep aviation expertise and a solid reputation as a problem solver. We urge the U.S. Senate to move swiftly on his confirmation process.”

With the FAA’s last Senate-confirmed administrator, Steve Dickson, resigning in March 2022, and Polly Trottenberg leading as an interim head since June, the organization desperately needs permanent leadership. With his vast experience, Michael Whitaker emerges as a promising candidate, ready to navigate the FAA into the future.

Photo courtesy of Michael G. Whitaker / Linkedin

Descubra más de DroneXL.co

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Obtenga su certificado Parte 107

Supera la prueba y surca los cielos con el Instituto Piloto. Hemos ayudado a miles de personas a convertirse en pilotos de aviones y drones comerciales. Nuestros cursos están diseñados por expertos de la industria para ayudarle a pasar las pruebas de la FAA y alcanzar sus sueños.

Derechos de autor © DroneXL.co 2024. Todos los derechos reservados. El contenido, las imágenes y la propiedad intelectual de este sitio web están protegidos por la ley de derechos de autor. La reproducción o distribución de cualquier material sin el permiso previo por escrito de DroneXL.co está estrictamente prohibida. Para permisos y consultas, por favor Contacto first. Also, be sure to check out DroneXL's sister site, EVXL.co, for all the latest news on electric vehicles.

FTC: DroneXL.co es un Asociado de Amazon y utiliza enlaces de afiliados que pueden generar ingresos por compras calificadas. No vendemos, compartimos, alquilamos ni enviamos spam a su correo electrónico.