President Donald Trump announced Monday that he has chosen Bryan Bedford, CEO of Republic Airways, as his nominee to lead the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

If confirmed, Bedford will take the helm at a pivotal time for the agency, which is grappling with a range of critical challenges following the first fatal U.S. airline crash in nearly 20 years.

Bedford, who has nearly 30 years of experience in the airline industry, previously led Mesaba Airlines and Business Express Airlines before heading Republic Airways.

Trump praised his extensive aviation and executive leadership background, stating on his social media platform, 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. Congratulations Bryan!”

The FAA is currently facing mounting pressure to address a shortage of air traffic controllers, modernize outdated infrastructure, and navigate the fallout from last month’s midair collision that killed 67 people.

These challenges come as the Trump administration continues efforts to reduce the federal workforce, including recent layoffs at the Transportation Department.

Senate Democrats may scrutinize Bedford’s stance on pilot training standards, a topic that has been contentious in past legislative debates.

Meanwhile, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) indicated he was not yet familiar with Bedford but would assess the nomination based on its merits.

As the FAA moves forward under new leadership, Bedford’s ability to balance industry reform with safety and operational efficiency will be closely watched.