In the aftermath of a tragic mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump has appointed Chris Rocheleau as the acting head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, involved an American Airlines regional passenger jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in the loss of all 67 individuals on board.
Chris Rocheleau, a U.S. Air Force veteran with over two decades of experience at the FAA, previously served as the chief operating officer of the National Business Aviation Association. His appointment comes after the resignation of former FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker on January 20, 2025.
During a press briefing, President Trump criticized previous administrations for allegedly lowering hiring standards within the FAA through diversity and inclusion initiatives. He asserted that such policies compromised safety by prioritizing diversity over competence. Trump emphasized his commitment to reinstating high standards for air traffic controllers, stating that only individuals with the highest aptitude and intellect should qualify for these critical positions.
The President also announced the signing of an executive order aimed at restoring rigorous standards for FAA personnel. He underscored the necessity of having the most qualified individuals in roles that impact public safety, particularly in aviation.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting an investigation into the collision. Preliminary reports suggest that air traffic controllers had warned the helicopter of the impending collision prior to the accident.
This tragic event has prompted a reevaluation of FAA policies and leadership, with a renewed focus on ensuring that safety remains the paramount concern in aviation operations.
