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Michael Whitaker

All articles tagged with #michael whitaker

aviation2 years ago

Senate Confirms Vermonter Michael Whitaker as First Permanent FAA Administrator in 19 Months

The Senate has confirmed Michael Whitaker as the new administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), ending a more than 18-month period of relying on acting chiefs. Whitaker takes charge of the agency during a critical time, as it faces a shortage of air traffic controllers and investigates a series of near-miss incidents. He plans to prioritize increasing the number of controllers and reducing runway incursions. The FAA has extended cuts to minimum flight requirements at high-traffic airports in New York City due to staffing shortages, causing operational disruptions for airlines.

politics2 years ago

Senate Unanimously Confirms Biden's FAA Administrator Choice

The Senate voted unanimously to confirm Michael Whitaker as the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), ending a 19-month period without a Senate-confirmed chief. Whitaker, a former deputy FAA administrator, will face challenges such as close calls between planes, a shortage of air traffic controllers, and outdated technology. His priorities will include building a strong safety culture, attracting new talent, and keeping pace with technological advancements. Whitaker was Biden's second choice for the position after the nomination of Phil Washington faced opposition and failed to advance. The FAA has been without a Senate-confirmed administrator since March 2022.

politics2 years ago

Senate Unanimously Confirms Biden's Nominee to Lead FAA

The Senate voted unanimously to confirm President Joe Biden's nominee, Michael Whitaker, to lead the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), ending a 19-month period without a Senate-confirmed chief. Whitaker, a former deputy FAA administrator, will face challenges such as close calls between planes, a shortage of air traffic controllers, and outdated technology. His priorities will include building a strong safety culture, attracting new talent, and keeping pace with technological advancements. Whitaker was Biden's second choice for the position after the nomination of Phil Washington faced opposition and failed to advance. The FAA has been without a Senate-confirmed administrator since March 2022.

politics2 years ago

Senate Confirms Michael Whitaker as FAA Administrator After 19-Month Vacancy

The Senate has confirmed Michael Whitaker as the new head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after a 19-month vacancy. Whitaker, a former deputy FAA administrator, brings extensive experience in the aviation industry, having served in senior roles at various airlines. His priorities include addressing challenges faced by the FAA, such as aviation safety, air traffic control, and aircraft certification. Whitaker also aims to prioritize technological advancements for the future of the aviation system. He has garnered support from aviation industry groups and is the second nominee for the FAA chief position under the Biden administration. Whitaker replaces Steve Dickson, who stepped down in March 2022.

aviation2 years ago

"Michael Whitaker Approved as Next FAA Administrator"

The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation has unanimously approved the nomination of Michael Whitaker as the next administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Whitaker's nomination now moves to the full Senate for confirmation. The vote comes amid concerns about the strain on the U.S. air travel system as it tries to keep up with the post-pandemic rebound in air travel. Whitaker, a former airline executive and deputy administrator at the FAA, has pledged to prioritize the safety of the flying public if confirmed. He also aims to rebuild the FAA's workforce, including air traffic controllers, and secure stable funding for the agency.

politics2 years ago

Biden's FAA Pick Faces Senate Confirmation Hearing

Michael Whitaker, President Biden's nominee for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) chief, is set to face a Senate confirmation hearing. Whitaker's previous work at the FAA, including the modernization of air traffic control, is expected to be scrutinized by Republicans. If confirmed, Whitaker would become the first Senate-confirmed chief in 18 months, with key challenges ahead including addressing safety concerns and employee shortages. Whitaker's experience and support from aviation organizations may help him navigate the confirmation process, while lawmakers continue to debate FAA priorities in a stalled policy bill.

politics2 years ago

Biden selects former airline executive to lead FAA

President Joe Biden has nominated Michael Whitaker, a veteran regulator and airline executive, to be the next head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The position has been vacant for nearly 18 months, causing concerns over aircraft near-misses, flight delays, and staffing issues. Whitaker, who previously served as the FAA's deputy administrator, must now undergo Senate vetting before confirmation. Industry groups and unions have expressed support for his nomination. Whitaker's experience includes overseeing the transition to satellite-based air traffic control technologies and working in various roles in the airline industry.