Industry Generally Supportive Of President Trump's Selection

Former Delta Airlines executive Steven Dickson has been confirmed as the next Administrator of the FAA in a narrow 52-40 vote in the U.S. Senate.

Dickson, a graduate of the Air Force Academy, had faced difficult questions during his confirmation hearings concerning a whistleblower lawsuit that has been filed against Delta, but Republican's voted to give President Trump his choice to lead the FAA, which is struggling to deal with the aftermath of two accidents involving the 737 MAX airplane.

The industry generally expressed support for the choice. “NBAA has had a close working relationship with Steve for many years, and we’re confident he’s the right man for the job,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “Having a permanent Administrator at the FAA is key to ensuring the continued advancement of important work being done on aviation-system modernization, equipment certification, workforce development, safety and other top priorities.”

“We congratulate Steve Dickson on his confirmation by the U.S. Senate. GAMA and its member companies look forward to working with him as the next leader of the FAA,” said GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce. “GAMA also strongly endorses Congress passing a waiver to ensure Dan Elwell continues to serve as FAA Deputy Administrator. Mr. Elwell has proven to be a very effective manager and leader at the FAA and will provide important continuity and support as Mr. Dickson takes over as Administrator.”

Elwell is scheduled to address EAA membership at AirVenture Thursday.

“Steve Dickson is a widely recognized senior aviation leader who’s been closely involved with the development of the NextGen Air Traffic Control System. The National Air Transportation Association looks forward to continued collaboration with FAA leadership to further our shared goals of safety, improving the national airspace system, and supporting aviation businesses,” stated NATA president Gary Dempsey.

Dickson retired from Delta Air Lines after serving as a Captain and most recently as Senior vice president-Flight Operations with oversight of the safety and operational performance of Delta’s global flight operations.

(Source: news releases. Image from file)

FMI: www.faa.gov