Mary Peters, the new Secretary of Transportation, hadn’t even been officially put on the job before AOPA President Phil Boyer had had a “frank discussion” with her. “Mary Peters reached out to me before the Senate vote, and we began the dialogue on the future funding of the FAA and AOPA’s opposition to user fees,” said AOPA President Phil Boyer. “I’m sure that will be just the first of our many frank discussions of issues important to AOPA members and GA pilots.” Peters was confirmed by the Senate but hasn’t been sworn in yet but there are plenty of people who want to talk to her. Pete Bunce, of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, noted “There is important work to be done in the coming months and years,” and he said Peters should be able to handle the job.
Peters is the former federal highway administrator but she also spent three years as head of Arizona’s department of transportation and that included running the aviation system. “Ms. Peters brings to the DOT a tremendous background in transportation issues and we look forward to working with her to promote general aviation safety and enhance our industry’s ability to grow the U.S. economy,” Bunce said.
New DOT Secretary In Alphabets’ Sights
Key Takeaways:
- Mary Peters has been confirmed as the new Secretary of Transportation, bringing extensive transportation experience, including running Arizona's aviation system.
- General aviation (GA) groups, such as AOPA and GAMA, are proactively engaging with Peters even before her swearing-in.
- AOPA has already expressed its strong opposition to user fees for FAA funding in discussions with Peters.
- GA industry leaders are optimistic about working with Peters to enhance general aviation safety and promote economic growth within the industry.
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