According to reports coming out of Washington, the Biden Administration is planning to appoint eVTOL developer Supernal’s Chief Operating Officer Mike Whitaker as FAA Administrator.

Whitaker certainly has a depth of experience at the FAA, having previously served it leading the Next Gen initiative, as well as a feel for the industry, having worked in the airline industry for much of his career. Of course, once nominated, the appointment is subject to Congressional approval, and that may take several months to complete. The previous nominee, Phil Washington, withdrew his candidacy after a train wreck of a Senate confirmation hearing as well as possible issues arising from his time as CEO of the Los Angeles Metro.

The White House has, thus far, remained silent on the reports although delay in the nomination/confirmation process raises the spectre of a leadership vacuum at the top of the regulator. Acting Administrator Billy Nolen has said that he will step down from the role in the summer once an Administrator has been nominated before Whittaker or any other nominee has been approved.

 

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