Donald Trump considers Republic Airways CEO Bryan Bedford for FAA Chief role

Republic Airways CEO Bryan Bedford has been named as US President Donald Trump’s top candidate for the role of head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). 

Sources informed Reuters on March 12, 2025, that Bedford had recently interviewed for the position, which requires Senate approval. Bedford has more than 30 years of experience in the airline sector, having joined Republic Airways in July 1999.  

Under his leadership as President and CEO, the airline’s revenue has increased from $85 million with 36 turboprop aircraft to over $1.3 billion with nearly 200 E-Jet aircraft.  

The FAA position has been vacant since January 20, 2025, when former Administrator Mike Whitaker announced his resignation on Trump’s Inauguration Day. 

On January 30, 2025, Trump appointed Chris Rocheleau, the National Business Aviation Association’ Chief Operating Officer, as the new Acting Administrator of the FAA. However, NBAA stated that Rocheleau will serve in this role temporarily until the Senate confirms Trump’s permanent nominee. 

On the same day, Trump issued a Presidential Memorandum calling for an immediate assessment of aviation safety. The orders were issued following the catastrophic midair collision between an American Eagle regional jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River. 

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