The U.S. Senate voted 86-13 to confirm Peter Buttigieg’s nomination to be the next Secretary of Transportation. Helicopter Association International (HAI) congratulates Secretary Buttigieg and looks forward to his leadership and guidance as he takes over this new role.

“HAI believes that Peter Buttigieg’s experience in military intelligence, as a Rhodes Scholar, and as the mayor of a large metropolitan city indicate that he has the analytical and leadership skills to capably direct the Department of Transportation into the future,” says James Viola, President and CEO of HAI. “We commend his plan to repair and develop U.S. infrastructure projects and look forward to seeing him move forward with elements of the plan in the role of Transportation Secretary, particularly with the upcoming requirements necessary to develop Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) across our nation. The developing need for heliports and vertiports across the nation requires urgent analysis, funding, and development in order for the U.S. to properly prepare for this evolving form of transportation. We will gladly work with Secretary Buttigieg and his teams, along with the other relevant stakeholders, in developing a practical plan to proceed with AAM operational requirements and certifications.”

“We applaud the Senate for their thorough consideration and swift approval of Peter Buttigieg’s nomination,” added Viola.