Washington, DC, March 21, 2019 – The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s intent to nominate Stephen M. Dickson as Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.

“Steve Dickson is a widely recognized and respected senior aviation leader who’s been closely involved with the development of the NextGen Air Traffic Control System. The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) looks forward to continued collaboration with FAA leadership to further our shared goals of safety, improving the national airspace system, and supporting aviation businesses,” stated NATA President Gary Dempsey.

“I’ve worked closely with Steve for many years and know firsthand his dedication to safety. The industry would benefit from his vast knowledge and experience with aviation at all levels,” stated NATA Vice President of Regulatory Affairs John McGraw.

Dickson retired from Delta Air Lines after serving as a Captain and most recently as Senior Vice President-Flight Operations with oversight of the safety and operational performance of Delta’s global flight operations. He’s been a steadfast advocate for safety and modernization having served as chairman of several industry stakeholder groups and two Federal Advisory Committees: the Air Traffic Management Advisory Committee (ATMAC) and the NextGen Implementation Task Force. A former USAF Officer and F-15 fighter pilot, Dickson graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy near Colorado Springs and holds a law degree from the Georgia State University College of Law.

NATA also acknowledged the leadership of the agency under FAA Acting Administrator Dan Elwell.

“NATA appreciates FAA Acting Administrator Dan Elwell’s hard work and earnest collaboration with the aviation business community. Elwell has been a solid leader during challenges that faced our industry, particularly throughout the longest federal shutdown in U.S. history and its recovery,” added Dempsey.

For general press inquiries, contact Shannon Chambers at 703-298-1347 or schambers@nata.aero. 

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has been the voice of aviation business for more than 80 years. Representing nearly 3,700 aviation businesses, NATA’s member companies provide a broad range of services to general aviation, the airlines and the military and NATA serves as the public policy group representing the interests of aviation businesses before Congress and the federal agencies.