President Donald Trump has nominated Republic Airways CEO Bryan Bedford to serve as administrator for the Federal Aviation Administration.
Trump announced in a social media post on Monday that Bedford will work alongside U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to reform the agency.
“As the former President and CEO of Republic Airways, Mesaba Airlines, and Business Express Airlines, Brian brings over three decades of experience in Aviation and Executive Leadership to this critical position,” Trump said in his post on Truth Social. “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.”
Nomination Draws Industry Praise
Industry organizations including the Regional Airline Association (RAA), Airlines for America, and Airports Council International each issued statements congratulating Bedford on the nomination.
“With over three decades of experience in the aviation sector, both as a pilot and airline CEO, Bryan Bedford will bring a deep understanding of the complexities, challenges, and opportunities facing air travel today,” said Airports Council International CEO Kevin Burke in a post on X.
“The Regional Airline Association Applauds Nomination of Bryan K. Bedford as FAA Administrator,” the RAA stated. “Today, our aviation system is safe, but every aspect is straining and in need of deep repair. I can think of no better person than Bryan to take up the mantle of leadership at the FAA and set course for a stronger, safer tomorrow.”
A4A Congratulates Bryan Bedford on Nomination to be FAA Administrator. Read full statement here: https://t.co/HNoBpCFbc0 pic.twitter.com/rsc06OPoPc
— Airlines for America (@AirlinesDotOrg) March 17, 2025
The nomination will require review and approval by the U.S. Senate.
Bedford had reportedly interviewed for the position sometime over the last several weeks. He will replace Chris Rocheleau, the FAA’s acting administrator, who was appointed by Trump via executive order shortly after January’s fatal mid-air collision in Washington D.C.
Before Rocheleau, Michael Whitaker served one year as FAA Administrator before leaving in December 2024.
Republic is a regional airline operating on behalf of American, Delta, and United. The carrier operates over 900 daily flights with around 200 Embraer aircraft.
It is currently unclear what will become of Bedford’s position as CEO at Republic, which he’s held since 2007. AirlineGeeks reached out to the airline for comment.
