Aviator, Entrepreneur, Civilian Astronaut At Confluence Of Aviation, Space, Tech

The National Business Aviation Association sent a letter to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation endorsing the nomination of Jared Isaacman as the leader of America’s space agency NASA.

In the letter, NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said, “Jared is exceptionally qualified to lead NASA at this critical point in the history of aeronautics and astronautics. As a renowned civilian astronaut, accomplished aviator, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Mr. Isaacman is an aerospace trailblazer.”

Isaacman founded two successful companies — Shift4, an online payments solution provider, and Draken International, a defense company that provides aviation-related services to the U.S. military.

Bolen continued, “He has successfully commanded two space missions, including the world’s first all-civilian mission to orbit. He has also developed and led organizations in finance and aerospace. He accomplished all of this while championing humanitarian causes and raising hundreds of millions for charities - a feat that NBAA recognized in 2023 by bestowing upon Mr. Isaacman its highest honor, the Meritorious Service to Aviation Award.

“Mr. Isaacman's experience at the intersection of aviation, space and technology will be invaluable in supporting NASA's mission and advancing the aerospace sector. This experience is especially important given NASA's collaboration with the FAA on safety and technology initiatives, such as the confidential, voluntary, non-punitive Aviation Safety Reporting System, integrating drones into the national airspace through unmanned aircraft traffic management system, and autonomous vehicle test flights.

”NASA research provides the FAA with data that will enable the safe integration of advanced air mobility, like electric air taxis and drones, into the national airspace. As NASA prepares for the next phase of innovation and space exploration, Mr. Isaacman stands ready to take the helm. We urge the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and the U.S. Senate to confirm Mr. Issacman’s nomination as soon as possible.

FMI:  nbaa.org/