WASHINGTON (October 25, 2023)—U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman issued the following statement on the U.S. Senate’s bipartisan confirmation of Michael Whitaker to serve as administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA):

“Mike Whitaker is a capable and tested aviation leader who will bring critical expertise to the FAA. The United States should have an air travel system that is not only safe, but also modern and efficient. Establishing permanent leadership at the FAA is a key step toward alleviating strain on the current system, meeting increasing air traveler demand and building an improved air travel experience for the future.

“U.S. Travel applauds the bipartisan confirmation and urges the Senate to quickly pass a long-term FAA reauthorization bill before the agency’s funding expires on December 31.”