Meet Mike Whitaker
For over 30 years, Michael Whitaker (Mike) has been a central figure in the development and stewardship of safe, measured, aerospace tech advancement in commercial, civil, and Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) sectors.
From 2020-2023, Mike was Chief Operating Officer, Chief Commercial Officer, and Chief Policy Officer at Hyundai Motor Group’s Supernal. AERO. In October 2023, Mike was unanimously confirmed as the 19th Administrator of the US Federal Aviation Administration and tasked with the mission of ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the largest aerospace system in the world. A trailblazer and change agent, he helmed the redesign of the FAA’s safety oversight systems to bolster continuous oversight and improvement.
Mike’s aviation career began as General Counsel of International Affairs at Trans World Airlines (TWA). He moved to United Airlines (UA) as SVP of Alliances, International & Regulatory Affairs, where he negotiated the transition of Continental Airlines to Star Alliance, the first and largest global airline alliance. In a subsequent role as Group CEO of Indian travel conglomerate InterGlobe, he assisted with the Groups launch of a new consumer-affordable carrier, IndiGo.
Mike left Interglobe to accept the Presidential appointment to FAA Deputy Administrator from 2013-2016. As the FAA’s second-in-command, he was charged to architect the completion and implementation of NextGen, a 20-year, $20B modernization of the U.S. air traffic control system. During his term, he laid the groundwork for Advanced Air Mobility by founding the framework that enabled powered-lift aircraft (eVTOL), the first new aircraft category in nearly 80 years.
A Royal Aeronautical Society Fellow, Mike is noted for his expertise, leadership, and enhancement of the aeronautics profession. He earned a JD from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C. and a BA in Political Science from the University of Louisville in Kentucky.
Industry Expert, Trailblazer, Futurist
FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker talks with Lester Holt on the safety culture at Boeing.
A deep dive into the future of American airspace and the growing demands of Advanced Air Mobility.
Wings Club of NY 2025 Guest Lecturer, Former FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker.
Michael Whittaker signs the special federal aviation regulation SFAR for powered lift pilot training and operations at the 2024 National Business Aviation Association’s annual convention.
How Can I help You?
Backed by my extensive experience in the aerospace sector’s public and private domains, I am committed to building structured ESG safety and risk management cultures that increase competitive advantage through corporate stability and stakeholder trust. I am open to advising or guiding public, large-cap, global company boards and startups facing regulatory-focused challenges, cultural resets, new tech, global expansion, and restructuring. For more information, please feel free to reach out to me via LinkedIn.
Current and Recent past Board Service
INDIGO (NSE: INDIGO) – Gurgaon, India
Part of InterGlobe Enterprises, known for its extensive domestic reach and growing international presence.
ZOOZ
A cutting-edge drone delivery service for retailers and logistics providers. Designed for safety, cost efficiency, and adaptability while integrating the latest technology to meet or exceed FAA regulations.
FLIGHT SAFETY FOUNDATION – Alexandria, VA
Independent, nonprofit, international organization focused on aviation safety research, education, and advocacy.
ANRA TECHNOLOGIES – Reston, VA
Air traffic management start-up focused on Unmanned Air Systems (UAS).
MATTERNET – Mountain View, CA
Drone delivery company that connects healthcare facilities to medical labs, and pharmacies to patients.
I’m always open to connecting with leaders and organizations shaping the next era of aviation. Whether you’re interested in collaboration, board service, or a conversation about the future of our airspace, I invite you to reach me at linkedin.com/in/michael-whitaker-aviation.
