James Viola took the reins of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) on March 20, becoming the trade group’s sixth president and CEO since its founding in 1970. Viola most recently headed up Vertical Aviation International (VAI, née Helicopter Association International) and succeeds Pete Bunce, who has led GAMA since 2005. Viola had served as VAI’s president and CEO since 2020, representing and supporting the global helicopter industry and other vertical aviation stakeholders.
The White House selection of long-time Republic Airways president Bryan Bedford to become the next FAA Administrator is drawing industry praise as he is considered “exceptionally well-suited for the role.” President Trump announced the nomination on March 17, noting that Bedford “brings over three decades of experience in aviation and executive leadership to this critical position.” Bedford would step into the position vacated ahead of the presidential inauguration in January by former FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker. The position is currently being held on an acting basis by former NBAA COO Chris Rocheleau. Bedford has led Republic since July 1999 as president and CEO after serving in the same roles at Mesaba Holdings and Business Express Airlines.
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