Donald Trump appoints Republic Airways CEO Bryan Bedford as new FAA head

US President Donald Trump has appointed Bryan Bedford, the CEO of Republic Airways, as the new head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  

On March 17, 2025, Trump confirmed the decision on the Truth Social platform. 

“Brian [sic] brings over three decades of experience in Aviation and Executive Leadership to this critical position,” Trump wrote in his post. “Bryan will work with our GREAT Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, to strongly reform the Agency, safeguard our exports, and ensure the safety of nearly one billion annual passenger movements.” 

Bedford has more than 30 years of experience in the airline industry, having joined Republic Airways in July 1999. Additionally, he is a former president and CEO of both Mesaba Airlines and Business Express Airlines.  

On March 12, 2025, sources told Reuters that Bedford had recently interviewed for the position and been named as a top candidate for the role by Trump. 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, Rocheleau held this position only temporarily until the Senate could confirm Trump’s permanent nominee.  

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