FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker to Resign After Year in Role

Five-year term will end early after serving 14 months as aviation agency leader.

Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 11:38 AM ET

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FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker said he will resign on January 20, which is also President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration day. [Credit: Chris Rose/ AOPA]

Key Takeaways:

FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker announced his resignation, effective January 20, 2025, which coincides with President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration day.
Whitaker's departure will occur just 14 months into his five-year term, having been confirmed in October 2023 after a prolonged vacancy.
Senator Ted Cruz publicly thanked Whitaker for his focus on aviation safety and for staying out of politics during his service.

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FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker will resign his post early next year, he announced Thursday.

An internal email announcing the decision posted on X by CNN transportation reporter Alexandra Skores stated that Whitaker plans to resign on January 20, which is also President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration day.

Caleb Revill

Caleb Revill is a journalist, writer and lifelong learner working as a Junior Writer for Firecrown. When he isn't tackling breaking news, Caleb is on the lookout for fascinating feature stories.