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FAA Nominee Sees ‘Inertia’ at Agency

Bryan Bedford calls out organization’s culture in answers to questionnaire from U.S. Senate.

FAA insignia on a laptop [Credit: Shutterstock]
FAA insignia on a laptop [Credit: Shutterstock]
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Key Takeaways:

  • Bryan Bedford, President Trump's nominee for FAA chief, harshly criticized the agency, citing a pervasive "malaise," "quiet resignation," and a lack of direction and innovation.
  • Bedford identified "trust," "transparency," and "leadership" as the FAA's top three challenges, noting a culture of inertia where managers are reluctant to speak up due to fear of retribution.
  • He attributed these issues to a lack of steady and qualified leadership and high turnover in senior positions, stressing the critical need for change to modernize the air traffic control system.
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Republic Airways CEO Bryan Bedford, President Donald Trump’s nominee for FAA chief, had some harsh words for the agency he hopes to lead, singling out alleged “malaise,” “quiet resignation” in the face of serious problems, and a lack of direction.

Bedford made those comments in response to a Senate questionnaire obtained and first reported by Reuters on Monday.

Zach Vasile

Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.

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