WASHINGTON, January 30, 2025 — The following statement is attributable to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio:

“We are grateful Chris Rocheleau has been named Acting FAA Administrator by President Trump. Our nation is reeling after the tragedy involving a commercial airplane and a military helicopter near DCA, and Chris’s proven, solid experience will provide smart leadership at this vital agency, especially during this critical time for our country.

“While the investigation is just beginning, there are other challenges facing the aviation industry — the air traffic controller staffing shortage, aging FAA technologies, capacity constraints and more.

“Commercial air travel in the U.S. is the safest mode of transportation in the world, and President Trump himself said today, ‘Flying is very safe. We have the safest flying anywhere in the world, and we’ll keep it that way.’

“We and our member carriers stand ready to work with Chris Rocheleau and the Trump Administration in the weeks and months to come as we work to reassure the American people that flying is safe.”

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