Chris Rocheleau, the deputy administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), announced he will be leaving the agency to return to his previous role in the private sector. Rocheleau, who served as acting FAA administrator during the first half of 2025, is set to rejoin the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) as chief operating officer.

Before his appointment as acting FAA head by President Trump in January 2025, Rocheleau had been the NBAA's COO since 2022. He transitioned to the FAA deputy administrator position when Bryan Bedford became FAA administrator in July 2025.

In a letter to colleagues, Rocheleau described his return to the FAA as a “true privilege” and reflected on his two decades of service at the agency, which included a period at the Transportation Security Administration in the mid-2000s. He expressed pride in the FAA's initiatives during his tenure, notably the use of artificial intelligence to enhance aviation safety and the launch of the Modern Skies Coalition to improve the air traffic control system.

“While I may be leaving the agency, I am even more excited about what lies ahead for the FAA,” Rocheleau wrote. “I look forward to seeing you continue to modernize our aerospace system, safely integrate the next generation of aircraft and aviation technologies into the National Airspace System, and further enhance safety here at home and around the globe.”

Ed Bolen, president and CEO of the NBAA, welcomed Rocheleau back, highlighting his commitment to service, strategic management skills, and strong relationships with government and industry leaders as key qualifications for his return.

Rocheleau's appointment as acting FAA administrator came less than 24 hours after a fatal midair collision involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River.

Sources