President Donald Trump is doubling down on purging diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts within the U.S. government. Less than two days after his inauguration, his administration is taking aim at the FAA.
On Tuesday, Trump issued an order requiring the FAA to immediately halt all DEI initiatives. “I hereby order the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administrator to immediately return to non-discriminatory, merit-based hiring, as required by law,” the order said.
The order adds that these initiatives “harm all Americans.” Trump blamed the Biden administration for increasing DEI hiring practices.
“For example, prior to my Inauguration, the FAA Diversity and Inclusion website revealed that the prior administration sought to specifically recruit and hire individuals with serious infirmities that could impact the execution of their essential life-saving duties,” the order continued.
By prioritizing DEI efforts, Trump said, the FAA “betrayed its mission.”
According to NBC News, Trump also ordered all federal employees in DEI-related roles to go on leave starting Wednesday evening. While their time off will be paid, the administration may be looking at options for layoffs.
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he’s worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks’ owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
Credit: flyingmag.com
