FAA Administrator Nomination Bryan Bedford

President Donald Trump has nominated Bryan Bedford, the longtime CEO of Republic Airways, to serve as the next Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). With over three decades of experience in aviation, Bedford’s nomination has been met with widespread support from industry stakeholders

Industry Support

AUVSI has published a statement in support of the nomination, saying: “Working alongside Deputy FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau and DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, Mr. Bedford will help lead a strong, forward-thinking FAA team committed to modernizing regulations, enhancing safety, and reinforcing U.S. leadership in global aviation.”

Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio also praised the nomination, stating, “President Trump made a superb choice in nominating Bryan Bedford to be FAA Administrator. Mr. Bedford has decades of experience in aviation operations, and he leads with a commitment to safety above all else”

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) also welcomed Bedford’s nomination, citing his experience as a pilot and aviation industry veteran.

Bedford’s Background

Bedford has served as CEO of Republic Airways since 1999, overseeing its transformation into one of the largest regional airlines in North America. Under his leadership, Republic expanded its fleet significantly and grew revenues from $85 million to over $1.3 billion. A certified pilot with multi-engine and instrument ratings, Bedford is known for fostering a strong safety culture within his airline

Challenges Ahead

If confirmed, Bedford will face several critical issues:

1. Modernizing air traffic control systems

2. Addressing staffing shortages, particularly among air traffic controllers

3. Enhancing aviation safety measures

4. Regulating the rapidly evolving commercial space transportation sector

What Comes Next

The position of FAA Administrator is a critical role in the U.S. government, overseeing the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system. Here’s what to expect in the confirmation process:

1. Senate Commerce Committee Hearing: Bedford will first appear before the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee for a confirmation hearing. This committee oversees the FAA and will thoroughly question Bedford on his qualifications and vision for the agency

• Committee Vote: Following the hearing, the committee will vote on whether to advance Bedford’s nomination to the full Senate

• Full Senate Vote: If approved by the committee, Bedford’s nomination will then be considered by the full Senate. A simple majority vote is required for confirmation.

• Swearing-in Ceremony: Upon confirmation, Bedford will be sworn in as the new FAA Administrator, typically in a ceremony attended by the Secretary of Transportation

• Transition Period: Once confirmed, Bedford will begin the process of assuming leadership of the FAA, which employs more than 45,000 people and has an annual budget of over $15 billion.

The confirmation process can vary in length, but recent precedent suggests it could move relatively quickly. The previous FAA Administrator, Michael Whitaker, was confirmed unanimously by the Senate (98-0) less than two months after his nomination

The position of FAA Administrator is a 5-year term.

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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry.  Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.

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