Calls Full Time Administrator Critical To Moving Aviation Policy Forward

Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) President Greg Principato and NATA President and CEO Thomas L. Hendricks issued statements Wednesday in response to the Senate’s confirmation of Michael Huerta’s nomination to be Administrator of the FAA.

“I applaud the Senate’s decision to put partisan differences aside and move Acting Administrator Huerta’s nomination forward. The national aviation system is a key driver for the US economy," Principato (pictured) said. "Given the challenging fiscal times facing our country and our industry, we need a full time Administrator who can dedicate the next five years to working with all industry stakeholders to create a national aviation policy that will ensure the country remains both an economic engine and be globally competitive well into the 21st century.”

"NATA applauds the U.S. Senate's leadership in confirming Michael Huerta as FAA Administrator," stated NATA President and CEO Thomas L. Hendricks. "We look forward to continuing to work with Administrator Huerta on aviation initiatives."

Huerta was confirmed by the Senate on New Year's Day as one of several Obama nominees considered to be non-controversial. He will now serve a full five year term as the head of the agency. Huerta was named Acting Administrator by President Obama following the resignation of Randy Babbitt late in 2011 after his arrest on charges of driving under the influence. Babbitt was later cleared of those charges.

Huerta's nomination had been held up by South Carolina Republican Senator Jim DeMint until after the election. DeMint removed his objections to the nomination last month.

FMI: www.aci-na.org, www.faa.gov