The U.S. Senate recently confirmed Robert L. Sumwalt III as Senate as National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) chairman, citing Sumwalt’s aviation career for its decision.
Sumwalt has a lengthy background in aviation safety, serving as a pilot for 24 years. While working for US Airways, he was a member of the quality assurance team and the flight safety department.
He formerly served as a member of the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA) Safety Committee. He appears at NBAA events to speak about safety.
In 2006, he was appointed vice chairman of the NTSB, an appointment that was renewed twice. In this role, he led several NTSB investigations of aircraft accidents and crashes.
Sumwalt also serves as a consultant to NASA’s Aviation Safety Reporting System.
The NTSB appointment was applauded by the NBAA.
“Robert is committed to safety, not only for business aviation but for all of the aviation,” NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said. “His solid leadership and the resulting increase in implementation of safety programs benefits aircraft operators, travelers, and the greater transportation industry. We look forward to working with him in his capacity as chair of the NTSB.”
Sumwalt will serve a two-year term as NTSB chairman.