Former Delta Air Lines executive Stephen Dickson has been confirmed as new FAA chief.
In a partisan vote, the Senate passed Dickson’s appointment by a 52-40 vote.
Dickson had come under criticism for not disclosing an ongoing lawsuit he was named in during his Delta tenure.
The suit alleges he had a hand in retaliating against a whistleblower who brought up safety issues.
Dickson now replaces acting FAA chief Dan Elwell.
"With decades of experience in the airline industry overseeing flight operations, and service to our country as a United States Air Force officer, Captain Dickson is highly qualified," said transportation secretary Elaine Chao.
The appointment was also backed by trade group Airlines for America.
Dickson left Delta last year after nearly three decades with the airline.
He takes over at a critical time with the agency’s credibility somewhat tarnished over its handling of the Boeing 737 Max grounding and cozy relationships within the airline industry.
Dickson’s inbox right now is dominated by issues over the 737 Max and how to get it cleared to fly safely again and restore confidence.
