Federal Aviation Administration Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Federal Aviation Administration has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to safety and efficiency, Federal Aviation Administration regulates all aspects of civil aviation, ensuring secure air travel and overseeing international waters.

Leadership Roles at Federal Aviation Administration

  • Chief Executive Officer - Milton Fontenot
  • M and D and Chief Executive Officer - Biodun Olayiwola
  • Chief Financial Officer - Cheryl Kelley
  • Chief Financial Officer, Operations - Dell Burt
  • Chief Operating Officer - Restituto Padilla
  • Chief of Staff - Kimberley Sheppard
  • Chief Marketing Officer & Manager, Federal Aviation & , York Certificate Management Office - Robert Jaffe
  • Chief Marketing Officer, SAS Start Team 29 & -67 - Edwin Aviles
  • Maintenance Supervisor Delta Chief Marketing Officer - Bruce Kotzian
  • Supy Chief Of Staff - Geofrey Frazier
  • Milton Fontenot - Chief Executive Officer

    Milton Fontenot, the Chief Executive Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, directs the overarching strategy and operational framework for the agency. Fontenot's leadership guides the organization's mission to regulate all aspects of civil aviation within the United States and its surrounding international waters. This executive role involves setting the strategic vision, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering innovation to maintain the highest standards of safety and efficiency in air travel. Fontenot's responsibilities extend to inter-agency collaboration and representing the Federal Aviation Administration on national and international stages. The focus remains on advancing aviation technology and safety protocols. Milton Fontenot drives the agency's commitment to a secure and progressive aviation environment, impacting millions of travelers and the broader transportation sector.

    Biodun Olayiwola - M and D and Chief Executive Officer

    Biodun Olayiwola, the M and D and Chief Executive Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, spearheads critical initiatives related to the agency's modernization and developmental strategies. Olayiwola's purview encompasses the strategic planning and execution of programs designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of civil aviation. This leadership position involves overseeing the integration of new technologies and operational improvements across the regulatory landscape. Olayiwola collaborates with various departments to ensure that the Federal Aviation Administration remains at the forefront of aviation management and oversight. The objective is to drive forward-thinking solutions that address the evolving challenges within the aviation industry. Biodun Olayiwola's role is pivotal in shaping the future operational capabilities and technological advancements of the agency.

    Cheryl Kelley - Chief Financial Officer

    Cheryl Kelley, the Chief Financial Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, manages the agency's fiscal operations and financial planning. Kelley oversees budgeting, resource allocation, and financial reporting to ensure the responsible management of public funds. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support the Federal Aviation Administration's regulatory and operational objectives. Kelley works closely with other executive leaders to align financial resources with strategic priorities, ensuring the agency can effectively fulfill its mandate. The focus is on maintaining financial integrity and optimizing expenditures to support aviation safety and infrastructure development. Cheryl Kelley's financial acumen is essential for the sustained operational capacity and long-term stability of the agency.

    Dell Burt - Chief Financial Officer, Operations

    Dell Burt, the Chief Financial Officer, Operations at Federal Aviation Administration, leads the financial management specifically for the agency's operational divisions. Burt is responsible for overseeing the financial health and resource allocation within key operational sectors, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic investment. This role involves detailed financial analysis, budgeting for operational expenditures, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. Burt collaborates with the Chief Operating Officer and other finance executives to align financial strategies with operational goals. The objective is to support the seamless execution of aviation regulation and safety initiatives through sound financial stewardship. Dell Burt's expertise is crucial for optimizing the financial performance of the Federal Aviation Administration's extensive operational network.

    Restituto Padilla - Chief Operating Officer

    Restituto Padilla, the Chief Operating Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, directs the day-to-day operational activities of the agency. Padilla oversees the implementation of policies and procedures that govern civil aviation, ensuring compliance and safety standards are met across all operations. This executive position involves managing complex logistical challenges and optimizing resource utilization to support the Federal Aviation Administration's extensive regulatory functions. Padilla collaborates with various divisions to enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness. The focus is on maintaining the integrity of the national airspace system and ensuring the smooth functioning of air traffic control and safety oversight. Restituto Padilla's leadership is fundamental to the effective execution of the agency's core mission.

    Kimberley Sheppard - Chief of Staff

    Kimberley Sheppard, the Chief of Staff at Federal Aviation Administration, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the executive leadership team. Sheppard facilitates the efficient functioning of the agency by managing key initiatives, overseeing internal communications, and ensuring alignment across departments. This role involves streamlining processes and enhancing the effectiveness of executive decision-making. Sheppard works to implement the strategic directives set forth by the Chief Executive Officer, ensuring that operational plans are executed seamlessly. The objective is to optimize the agency's performance and responsiveness to regulatory demands. Kimberley Sheppard's contribution is vital in maintaining organizational coherence and driving forward the Federal Aviation Administration's mission.

    Robert Jaffe - Chief Marketing Officer & Manager, Federal Aviation & , York Certificate Management Office

    Robert Jaffe, the Chief Marketing Officer & Manager, Federal Aviation & , York Certificate Management Office at Federal Aviation Administration, leads strategic initiatives related to public engagement and the management of certification processes. Jaffe oversees the communication of the agency's mission and regulatory framework to stakeholders, fostering understanding and compliance. This dual role involves developing outreach programs and managing the operational aspects of the York Certificate Management Office. Jaffe works to enhance the agency's public profile and streamline certification procedures. The focus is on effective communication and efficient management of critical administrative functions. Robert Jaffe's leadership ensures that the Federal Aviation Administration's message is clearly conveyed and its certification processes are effectively administered.

    Edwin Aviles - Chief Marketing Officer, SAS Start Team 29 & -67

    Edwin Aviles, the Chief Marketing Officer, SAS Start Team 29 & -67 at Federal Aviation Administration, drives targeted marketing and communication strategies for specific agency initiatives. Aviles focuses on developing and executing campaigns that support the objectives of the SAS Start Team 29 & -67, ensuring effective outreach and engagement. This role involves understanding the unique communication needs of these specialized teams and tailoring strategies accordingly. Aviles collaborates with internal stakeholders to align marketing efforts with broader agency goals. The objective is to enhance awareness and facilitate the successful implementation of projects managed by these teams. Edwin Aviles's marketing expertise is key to advancing the visibility and impact of critical Federal Aviation Administration programs.
    Edwin Aviles

    Bruce Kotzian - Maintenance Supervisor Delta Chief Marketing Officer

    Bruce Kotzian, the Maintenance Supervisor Delta Chief Marketing Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, bridges operational maintenance oversight with strategic marketing functions. Kotzian ensures that the maintenance standards for Delta operations meet rigorous safety requirements while also contributing to the marketing and communication efforts related to these services. This unique position involves overseeing the upkeep of critical aviation assets and translating maintenance excellence into effective public messaging. Kotzian collaborates with both operational teams and marketing departments to align these diverse responsibilities. The focus is on maintaining high standards of safety and operational reliability while promoting the agency's capabilities. Bruce Kotzian's role is integral to showcasing the Federal Aviation Administration's commitment to excellence in both maintenance and public relations.

    Geofrey Frazier - Supy Chief Of Staff

    Geofrey Frazier, the Supy Chief Of Staff at Federal Aviation Administration, provides essential support and strategic coordination for the agency's leadership. Frazier enhances the efficiency of executive operations by managing key administrative functions and ensuring seamless communication flow. This role involves facilitating the implementation of strategic directives and optimizing internal processes to support the Federal Aviation Administration's regulatory mission. Frazier works closely with other staff members to ensure organizational alignment and effective execution of plans. The objective is to bolster the agency's operational effectiveness and responsiveness. Geofrey Frazier's contributions are vital to the smooth functioning and strategic advancement of the Federal Aviation Administration.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Federal Aviation Administration Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Federal Aviation Administration?
    Federal Aviation Administration is led by Milton Fontenot (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Biodun Olayiwola (M and D and Chief Executive Officer) and Cheryl Kelley (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Federal Aviation Administration’s executive team?
    The executive team of Federal Aviation Administration includes leaders such as Milton Fontenot (Chief Executive Officer), Biodun Olayiwola (M and D and Chief Executive Officer), Cheryl Kelley (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Federal Aviation Administration have?
    Federal Aviation Administration has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Federal Aviation Administration’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Federal Aviation Administration includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, M and D and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Operations, Chief Operating Officer.