WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) welcomes Bryan Bedford as its new Administrator. He will lead a workforce of more than 40,000 employees dedicated to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the most complex national airspace system in the world. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the FAA team. I have a deep respect for the important work FAA employees do to protect the safety and efficiency of our national airspace,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. 

Bedford brings more than 35 years of aviation experience to the FAA, including 26 years as CEO of Republic Airways. He will work closely with Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy to build a new, state-of-the-art air traffic control system. 

“I look forward to working with Secretary Duffy and admire his leadership and commitment to delivering this new system within the next three to four years,” Bedford said. “We’re building a modern, resilient FAA—one that embraces innovation and is ready for the future demands of aviation.” 

Bedford will immediately begin visiting FAA facilities nationwide to meet employees, hear their perspectives, and better understand the challenges and opportunities ahead. “Building trust and delivering results together will be our focus,” he said. 

Chris Rocheleau, who served as Acting Administrator, will now transition to the role of Deputy Administrator to support Bedford.