Bryan Bedford was confirmed as the new FAA administrator on July 9, 2025, amid ongoing concerns about air safety and pilot training standards, especially following recent accidents including a deadly collision near Washington, D.C.

The Senate's largely party-line vote supported Bedford, with only one Democrat opposing, reflecting the contentious debate over his industry background and safety stance.

With recent congressional approval of $12.5 billion for FAA upgrades, Bedford is expected to oversee significant modernization efforts at the agency.

Supporters, including industry leaders and some senators, praised Bedford’s extensive experience and analytical approach, emphasizing his potential to modernize air traffic control systems.

However, safety advocates and families of crash victims voiced strong opposition, concerned that Bedford’s reluctance to commit to the 1,500-hour pilot training requirement could undermine decades of safety improvements.

Notable figures like Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger publicly opposed Bedford’s appointment, fearing his leadership might weaken safety standards established after the 2009 Colgan Air crash.

During his confirmation hearing, Bedford acknowledged issues like understaffing and outdated equipment at the FAA, but some Democrats raised concerns about his responses to safety-related questions.

As CEO of Republic Airways, Bedford’s company petitioned the FAA to lower pilot training requirements, specifically the 1,500-hour rule, raising safety concerns among unions and safety advocates.

A major point of contention was Bedford’s stance on reducing the pilot flight hour requirement, a rule supported by the pilots union and considered crucial for safety.

Family members of Flight 3407 victims expressed disappointment but were not surprised, fearing Bedford might revisit safety standards, which they believe should not be compromised for business interests.

Victims’ families and safety advocates continue to emphasize that safety standards should remain strict, urging Congress and the FAA to oppose any weakening of key regulations.

Overall, Bedford’s confirmation highlights the ongoing debate between industry support for modernization and safety advocates’ concerns about maintaining rigorous safety standards in U.S. aviation.