‘Miracle on the Hudson’ Pilot References Bedford’s Controversial Past

Captain Sully Sullenberger, the pilot who saved 155 people by safely landing an A320 in the Hudson River, has come forward with his thoughts on Trump’s pick to head the FAA: “We all deserve better.” The nominee has made some highly questionable comments regarding pilot experience requirements.

In a strongly worded statement, Sullenberger warned that Bedford’s appointment could “undo” his life’s work in pursuit of aviation safety. He pointed specifically to Bedford’s lack of commitment to the 1,500-hour rule: a post-Colgan Air crash regulation requiring airline pilots to have a minimum of 1,500 flight hours before carrying passengers.

Bedford has previously suggested halving that requirement for graduates of the Republic LIFT Academy, claiming that his program produces safe pilots as efficiently as the military. Captain Sully responded by stating that “the first time a pilot experiences real weather should not be with paying passengers onboard, unwitting and unwilling guinea pigs.”

Sullenberger also criticized what he described as Bedford’s “insane” willingness to deregulate the airline industry and let carriers run themselves.

Adding to the controversy is Bedford’s somewhat misleading biography. For more than a decade, his official profiles claimed he held a commercial pilot license. FAA records show otherwise: Bedford is a private pilot with an instrument rating, but he does not hold a commercial certificate, which would legally allow him to fly for hire. The Department of Transportation called the inaccuracy an “administrative error” despite it going uncorrected until June 2025.

Bedford’s airline career spans decades. He’s been CEO of Republic Airways since 1999, during which time the company expanded significantly but also filed for bankruptcy in 2016. Despite industry accolades and executive experience, critics question whether that’s enough to lead the FAA, especially amid staffing shortages, ATC system strain, and rising public concern over flight safety.

His refusal to give a straight answer on pilot experience requirements during recent hearings, despite repeated questioning from Senator Tammy Duckworth, has only deepened the divide. For Sully, the role requires “an experienced aviation safety expert that we can all trust,” and Bedford may not fit the bill.

FMI: www.faa.gov