Phil Washington Withdraws Nomination for FAA Administrator

Washington had not received a committee hearing for eight months as several lawmakers raised concerns about his aviation experience.

Amelia Walsh

Monday, March 27, 2023 at 11:44 AM ET

Verified

President Biden’s pick to head the FAA, Phil Washington, has withdrawn his nomination after failing to garner enough support in Congress. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

President Biden's nominee for FAA Administrator, Phil Washington, has withdrawn his nomination due to a lack of congressional support.
Concerns were primarily raised over Washington's limited aviation experience and his inability to answer basic aviation safety questions during his confirmation hearing.
His withdrawal leaves the FAA without a confirmed leader during a critical period marked by operational challenges and safety incidents, with the administration now committed to expeditiously nominating a new candidate.

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President Biden’s pick to head the FAA, Phil Washington, has withdrawn his nomination after failing to garner enough support in Congress.

In a March 25 tweet, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg confirmed the news, writing, “The FAA needs a confirmed Administrator, and Phil Washington’s transportation & military experience made him an excellent nominee. The partisan attacks and procedural obstruction he has faced are undeserved, but I respect his decision to withdraw and am grateful for his service.”