FAA Low-Key On DOT Secretary’s Departure

0

The FAA didn’t have much to say on the resignation. Blakey issued a four-line news release that noted Mineta’s long career. “His work made terrific contributions to reducing congestion and to the safest period in aviation history,” Blakey said. “He has certainly left his mark on our skies.” Other groups chimed in on the safety angle and the National Business Aviation Association credited Mineta with reshaping general aviation to make it able to adapt to changing market and operating conditions. “Norm Mineta’s understanding of the general aviation sector helped guide to passage the General Aviation Revitalization Act, which was fundamental to the future of general aviation,” said NBAA President Ed Bolen. “The nation owes Secretary Mineta a debt of gratitude for his tremendous service.” Those outside the industry are lauding Mineta for his overhaul of civil aviation security in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Bloomberg News’ story on Mineta focused almost entirely on his security accomplishments, quoting Washington officials on his decisiveness and effectiveness in dealing with the shutting down and then return of aviation activity. But Mineta refused to take the credit in his resignation letter to President George W. Bush. “From the earliest moments of that horrible day and for weeks and months after, the personnel of the department performed quickly, courageously and effectively,” Mineta said in his resignation letter to Bush dated June 20.

LEAVE A REPLY