It’s a bad time to find a new FAA boss

The FAA is in one of the most demanding periods in its history as it grapples with controversial new 5G mobile phone service, the fallout from twin Boeing 737 Max tragedies and the Covid-19 pandemic. Now the agency must contend with the potential of operating without a confirmed leader. The surprise announcement last month that its administrator is leaving at the end of this month has come as partisan conflict in the Senate has stalled all transportation-related nominees. Its architect, Florida Republican Senator Rick Scott, has vowed to continue the block until his demands for a hearing on the nation’s supply-chain issues are met, his spokeswoman said. “The aviation community and the FAA needs continuity, needs clarity and strong leadership,” said Hassan Shahidi, president and CEO of the nonprofit Flight Safety Foundation. “It is important to have that strong leadership from the top and to do it quickly and without delay.” FAA Administrator Steve Dickson on Feb. 16 announced that he was stepping down about halfway into his five-year term. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told reporters March 2 at the Capitol that a nominee would come “soon.” Numerous names have been floated by lawmakers, unions and the news media, but the administration hasn’t signaled whether it has narrowed its choice toward any of them. Story lists possible nominees.<br/>