Carl, I agree with your comment, but… The FAA began working on NextGen in the summer of 2000 and had a plan to complete the final phase by 2030. They divided the project into five-year segments called Alpha (2010–2015), Bravo (2016–2020), Charlie (2021–2025), and Delta (2026–2030). During 2013 to 2014, Mike Whitaker, as the FAA’s Deputy Administrator, played a role in developing and implementing the program. It is claimed that Whitaker led and supported NextGen initiatives by working together with different aviation stakeholders, including government agencies, airlines, and industry partners, to advance the use of NextGen technologies and procedures.
While Whitaker’s leadership and contributions may have influenced the direction of NextGen and gained support from the industry for its implementation, it’s important to note that his role was most likely in promoting the program. In my opinion, it is fair to say that Whitaker’s work would not have had a significant impact on the current state of this super extensive and complex system. On a positive note, he is a lawyer, pilot, knows the industry, and as prior FAA employee, he has relevant experience.