United States – Bryan Bedford, former CEO of Republic Airways, has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the new Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), following a 53–43 vote on July 9. Appointed by President Donald Trump, Bedford assumes leadership amid a critical phase for U.S. aviation safety and infrastructure reform, including a $12.5 billion modernization program for the nation’s air traffic control system.

• Bedford, who led Republic Airways for over 25 years, stepped down recently to take on the FAA role. His airline operated nearly 1,000 daily regional flights for major U.S. carriers.

• He was confirmed for a five-year term and will oversee the FAA’s modernization agenda

• Bedford’s stance on the 1,500-hour co-pilot training rule has sparked opposition, as he has declined to fully commit to retaining it.

• A key decision for Bedford will involve determining when to lift the current production cap of 38 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft per month

• The FAA is also maintaining its non-delegation policy on Boeing aircraft certifications, continuing direct inspections of each 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner.

Source: US Senate