FAA Shakeup After Deadly Crash Near Reagan Airport

Following a tragic midair collision near Reagan National Airport that resulted in 67 fatalities, President Trump appointed Chris Rocheleau as the acting FAA administrator and signed executive orders to assess aviation safety and review DEI policies. The crash involved an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter, and occurred when the FAA was without a confirmed leader after Michael Whitaker resigned under pressure from Elon Musk. Trump criticized the Obama and Biden administrations, blaming DEI initiatives for compromising safety standards, and emphasized the need for 'competence' in hiring. Musk's involvement in Whitaker's resignation was linked to disputes over fines against SpaceX. The appointments and policy shifts underscore the administration's focus on reshaping FAA leadership and policies amid this aviation crisis.