Hearing delayed, FAA still lacks permanent chief
A Senate confirmation hearing on the nomination of acting FAA Administrator Robert Sturgell to become the next permanent head of the agency was postponed a
A Senate confirmation hearing on the nomination of acting FAA Administrator Robert Sturgell to become the next permanent head of the agency was postponed abruptly in the days before Christmas. Aides to the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee blamed Senate fatigue and the approaching holidays for the delay.
But Republicans charged that it was politics and Congress’s penchant for micromanaging the FAA that scuttled the hearing for the White House nominee. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) threatened to put a “hold” on the nomination until he is satisfied with the agency’s response to questions raised about the Northeast airspace redesign plan. A “hold” puts a freeze on further Senate action until it is withdrawn by the sponsor.
