An American Airlines plane lands at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia on November 23, 2021.
Drew Anger | Getty Images
President Joe Biden on Wednesday nominated Denver International Airport chief Phil Washington to lead the Federal Aviation Administration.
Washington’s nomination to run the agency, which has about 45,000 employees, comes after Steve Dixon stepped down in late March, citing personal reasons. FAA security chief Billy Nolan was named as acting administrator.
If confirmed, Washington would lead an agency that is working to repair its reputation after two fatal accidents BoeingK 737 MAX aircraft, which led to legislation that tightened federal oversight of new aircraft.
The FAA is also tasked with reviewing new Boeing jets like the 777X and Max’s largest model, the 737 Max 10, and has yet to sign on Boeing’s Dreamliner planes to resume deliveries.
The FAA is also working with airlines to reduce staffing shortages and flight delays and cancellation rates, among other challenges. The FAA and airline officials have blamed each other for the flight disruptions, which have affected traveling planes carrying thousands of passengers.
Washington has led Denver Airport, one of the busiest airports in the country, for nearly a year and previously served as CEO of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for six years.