Airport Alert: Senate Commerce Committee Advances Bedford Nomination

June 25, 2025

The Senate Commerce Committee today approved Bryan Bedford to be the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. The panel advanced the nomination on a party-line vote of 15 to 13.
 
Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) described Bedford as a pilot and seasoned manager who is well-equipped to “modernize the FAA to meet today’s standards.” However, Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA) continued to criticize the nominee for his “attack” on the 1,500-hour rule during his tenure as CEO of Republic Airways.
 
During his nomination hearing Bedford tried to downplay the controversial topic by telling lawmakers that his top priorities are to modernize the air traffic control system and address controller staffing challenges. But he refused to say whether he would – or would not – make changes to the pilot training rule.
 
It is unclear when the full Senate will consider the nomination.