The upcoming Trump Administration has announced Elaine Chao as its pick for the next transportation secretary.
Chao is the wife of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and was labor secretary throughout the George W Bush administration.
She held a pro-business agenda throughout and previously in the role of deputy secretary of transportation had a history of blocking and pushing back on regulation.
The appointment is likely to be welcome news for the airline industry.
The world’s biggest airline applauded the appointment.
"The American Airlines team congratulates Elaine Chao on her nomination as transportation secretary. We look forward to working together to provide safe, efficient and affordable global air transportation for all Americans," a statement said.
Chao’s nomination was also welcomed by Uber.
"Ms. Chao’s knowledge of transportation issues is extensive and we look forward to working closely with her," said Niki Christoff, head of federal affairs at Uber.
Chao supports the ride-hailing industry in principle and last year said ‘government policies must not stifle the innovation that has made this sector such an explosive driver of job growth and opportunity.’
"Secretary Chao’s extensive record of strong leadership and her expertise are invaluable assets in our mission to rebuild our infrastructure in a fiscally responsible manner," President-elect Trump said in a statement.
