Marion Blakey 

Marion Clifton Blakey was sworn in on September 13, 2002 as the 15th administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. As administrator, Blakey is responsible for regulating and advancing the safety of the nation's airways as well as operating the world's largest air traffic control system. Prior to being named FAA administrator, Blakey served as chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board. During her tenure as chairman, Blakey managed a number of accident investigations including the crash of American Airlines flight 587. Blakey worked to improve the board's accident reporting process and increased industry and regulatory responsiveness to NTSB safety recommendations. Additionally, Blakey strengthened the board's advocacy and outreach programs to promote safer travel throughout all modes of transportation. She also furthered development of the NTSB Academy as a national and international resource to enhance aviation safety and accident investigations. At the FAA, Ms. Blakey, continues a long career of public service. In addition to NTSB chairman, Blakey has held four previous presidential appointments, two of which required Senate confirmation. From 1992 to 1993, Blakey served as administrator of the Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). As the nation's leading highway safety official, she was charged with reducing deaths, injuries, and economic losses resulting from motor vehicle crashes. Prior to her service at NHTSA, she held key positions at the Department of Commerce, the Department of Education, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the White House and the Department of Transportation.