President Joe Biden has put forth Michael G. Whitaker as his nomination for the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Whitaker, who boasts an extensive career spanning over three decades in the aviation sector, currently holds the position of chief operating officer at Supernal, a Hyundai Motor Group subsidiary focused on developing electric advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles.
Before his stint at Supernal, Whitaker served as the Deputy Administrator at the FAA from 2013 to 2016. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in transitioning the U.S. air traffic control system from radar-based to satellite-enabled surveillance technology, known as ABS-B. His efforts in bridging the gap between the government and the industry were instrumental in this transition.
Whitaker’s experience isn't limited to the FAA. He held the title of Group CEO at InterGlobe Enterprises, India's premier travel conglomerate, responsible for the strategy and operations across its four affiliate travel businesses. Additionally, he was a key figure at IndiGo, India's largest airline.
Whitaker's association with the aviation industry also includes a 15-year tenure at United Airlines, during which he donned various hats, including Director, Vice President, and Senior Vice President. His diverse roles encompassed overseeing commercial alliances, handling international and regulatory affairs, and providing strategic guidance on international issues to the airline's top leadership.
Starting his journey in aviation as a litigator, Whitaker then moved on to serve as the Assistant General Counsel for international and regulatory affairs at Trans World Airlines (TWA). An alumnus of Georgetown University Law Center, Whitaker holds a juris doctorate degree and is a private pilot. Further solidifying his commitment to the aviation sector, he is an active board member of the Flight Safety Foundation, a global nonprofit dedicated to enhancing aviation safety.
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