Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael Whitaker announced on Thursday that he will step down from his role on January 20, 2025, after just over a year in the position.
Looks like…Dan Elwell?
Would be interesting to find out why. Replacing him with Mr Elwell will not change anything at the FAA. We need someone who can straighten out the FAA once and for all. Putting in another insider or career FAA person isn’t going to change anything.
Yes, let’s replace him with another completely unqualifed one of Trump’s billionaire golf buddy campaign donors or relatives.
And the revolving door keeps on spinning.
At least Trump will have a chance to replace him with someone on the no-fly list for onboard misconduct.
I’m finally outta here, thanks so much for pushing me . . . I’ve been a long time A/V Web reader and as an aviator always appreciate education on airplanes and flying. However, the inability of many readers and posters on this website who just can’t get out of their political biases, either left or right, has become an annoyance greater than the value of the articles. I’m sure those of you who are political animals will share your view about my opinion, but fortunately I won’t be here to receive your vitriol. Bye, bye.
The FAA needs a skilled administrative professional to head the agency.
Frankly, if it was my decision, I would select from the existing veteran staff of Associate and Deputy Administrators. What is needed is a “steady hand on the control yoke” as we navigate turbulent skies.
“Safety is our passion.” Yet, the choice for FAA Administrator reflects an interesting, or perhaps ironic, focus on loyalty. This raises a question: can a true commitment to safety align with decisions driven more by loyalty than public interest? Just sayin’!
Part of the problem is the business of the FAA
Administering pilots, air traffic and the airlines they probably get an A-
Administering Boeing airworthiness C-
Why not stay and just read the articles and not the comments?
I seem to recall that is was liberals they called “snowflakes”.
I may be poking the bear here but…political-leaning comments are to be expected because the editorial’s tone and content naturally invite them. By highlighting Whitaker’s resignation, President-elect Trump’s opportunity to appoint a successor, and potential candidates tied to previous administrations, the editorial connects leadership changes at the FAA to broader political dynamics. Even though the focus is on governance, these elements make it likely that readers will interpret the news through a political lens, sparking partisan discussions about the FAA’s future direction and priorities. So. let it be!
Nothing newsworthy here. Most directors resign before a new administration arrives in The Swamp. Looks better on a resume than being fired.
Since 1993, there have been over 14 years in total without a confirmed FAA Administrator, creating significant gaps in leadership. While Acting Administrators managed day-to-day operations, these extended periods without a confirmed leader likely delayed major reforms and hindered progress on critical issues such as modernization, drone regulations, and cybersecurity. This underscores the importance of having a confirmed qualified Administrator to drive long-term improvements and sustain confidence in the agency’s mission.
Thanks, Raf. You always seem to have a thoughtful, insightful comment (or two) based on fact and reason instead of political cultism. But Aviatrexx made me spit coffee on my computer this morning. Hilarious!
Maybe replace him with a lefty sock sucker who doesnt even have a pilot license. A friend if yours perhaps? You even?
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