Federal Aviation Administration Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Federal Aviation Administration has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and information technology.

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 Operating Officer - Restituto Padilla
  • Chief Information Officer - Ernesto Villacarlos
  • Chief of Staff - Beth Burkett
  • Operations Assistant Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Apoi (Chicago) - Adrienne Krunich
  • Manager, 142 Chief Marketing Officer - Euel Henry
  • Chief Marketing Officer, Faa Apmi Atl -So65 F3la - Steven Newcomer
  • Office of Commercial Space Transportation Chief of Staff - JaDa Wells
  • Supervisory Operations Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Jetblue Certificate, York - Mark Seal
  • 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 ensures alignment with the core mission of regulating all aspects of civil aviation within the United States and its surrounding international waters. This executive guides the organization's long-term vision, focusing on safety, efficiency, and technological advancement in air travel. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering inter-agency collaboration and representing the Federal Aviation Administration in national and international forums. Milton Fontenot's strategic direction is critical for maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety and security, impacting millions of travelers and the broader transportation sector. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of regulatory policy and operational execution to navigate the complexities of modern aviation.

    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 development efforts. Olayiwola's focus involves driving innovation and implementing advanced technologies to enhance the regulatory oversight of civil aviation. This executive's purview includes strategic planning for infrastructure upgrades and the adoption of new operational protocols that bolster safety and efficiency across the national airspace. The M and D and Chief Executive Officer plays a pivotal role in ensuring the Federal Aviation Administration remains at the forefront of aviation technology and best practices. Biodun Olayiwola's leadership is essential for adapting to evolving aviation landscapes and maintaining the agency's commitment to secure and efficient air travel. This position requires a deep understanding of both technological trends and regulatory compliance.

    Restituto Padilla - Chief Operating Officer

    Restituto Padilla, the Chief Operating Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, oversees the day-to-day operational execution of the agency's regulatory mandate. Padilla's responsibilities encompass managing the complex network of aviation safety inspectors, air traffic controllers, and administrative staff across the nation. This executive ensures that all operational procedures adhere to the highest safety standards and regulatory requirements governing civil aviation. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic focus involves optimizing resource allocation and enhancing operational efficiency to support the Federal Aviation Administration's mission. Restituto Padilla's leadership is vital for the seamless functioning of the national airspace system and the effective enforcement of aviation regulations. This role demands exceptional logistical management and a profound understanding of aviation operations.

    Ernesto Villacarlos - Chief Information Officer

    Ernesto Villacarlos, the Chief Information Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, directs the agency's information technology strategy and infrastructure. Villacarlos is responsible for developing and implementing robust digital systems that support regulatory functions, data management, and operational communications. This executive ensures the security and integrity of sensitive aviation data, safeguarding against cyber threats. The Chief Information Officer's role is crucial in leveraging technology to enhance aviation safety, streamline air traffic management, and improve overall agency efficiency. Ernesto Villacarlos's leadership drives the digital transformation initiatives necessary for the Federal Aviation Administration to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry. This position requires expertise in IT governance, cybersecurity, and large-scale system implementation.

    Beth Burkett - Chief of Staff

    Beth Burkett, the Chief of Staff at Federal Aviation Administration, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the executive leadership team. Burkett manages key initiatives, facilitates communication across departments, and ensures the efficient execution of agency priorities. This executive's role involves streamlining workflows and enhancing organizational effectiveness to support the Federal Aviation Administration's mission of regulating civil aviation. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of contact for critical projects and stakeholder engagement, ensuring alignment with the agency's strategic objectives. Beth Burkett's leadership contributes significantly to the smooth functioning of the executive office and the overall operational integrity of the agency. This position demands strong organizational skills and a comprehensive understanding of regulatory operations.

    Adrienne Krunich - Operations Assistant Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Apoi (Chicago)

    Adrienne Krunich, the Operations Assistant Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Apoi (Chicago) at Federal Aviation Administration, leads critical operational oversight and marketing initiatives within the Chicago region. Krunich's dual focus ensures stringent adherence to aviation safety regulations while driving strategic outreach and engagement with industry stakeholders. This executive's responsibilities include conducting thorough inspections and audits to maintain the highest safety standards for civil aviation operations in the designated area. The Operations Assistant Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Apoi (Chicago) also spearheads marketing efforts to promote aviation safety awareness and foster collaborative relationships within the aviation community. Adrienne Krunich's leadership is instrumental in upholding the Federal Aviation Administration's mission at a regional level, ensuring both compliance and effective communication.

    Euel Henry - Manager, 142 Chief Marketing Officer

    Euel Henry, the Manager, 142 Chief Marketing Officer at Federal Aviation Administration, directs marketing strategies and program development for aviation training and certification standards. Henry's role focuses on enhancing the understanding and implementation of Federal Aviation Administration regulations among aviation training providers and personnel. This executive oversees the development of communication materials and outreach programs designed to promote best practices in aviation safety and operational excellence. The Manager, 142 Chief Marketing Officer is responsible for ensuring that marketing efforts effectively support the agency's broader objectives of regulating civil aviation. Euel Henry's leadership contributes to the consistent application of aviation standards and the continuous improvement of the aviation workforce. This position requires a blend of marketing acumen and regulatory knowledge.

    Steven Newcomer - Chief Marketing Officer, Faa Apmi Atl -So65 F3la

    Steven Newcomer, the Chief Marketing Officer, Faa Apmi Atl -So65 F3la at Federal Aviation Administration, leads marketing and outreach efforts for specific aviation programs within the Atlanta region. Newcomer's responsibilities include developing and executing strategies to promote aviation safety initiatives and regulatory compliance among stakeholders in the designated operational area. This executive ensures that marketing communications effectively convey the Federal Aviation Administration's mission and objectives to the aviation industry and the public. The Chief Marketing Officer, Faa Apmi Atl -So65 F3la plays a key role in fostering positive relationships and enhancing the agency's visibility. Steven Newcomer's leadership is vital for advancing aviation safety and operational standards through targeted marketing and engagement strategies. This role requires a strong understanding of regional aviation dynamics and effective communication techniques.
    Steven Newcomer

    JaDa Wells - Office of Commercial Space Transportation Chief of Staff

    JaDa Wells, the Office of Commercial Space Transportation Chief of Staff at Federal Aviation Administration, provides critical strategic and operational support for the commercial space sector's regulatory oversight. Wells manages key initiatives and facilitates coordination within the Office of Commercial Space Transportation, ensuring alignment with the Federal Aviation Administration's broader safety and regulatory goals. This executive's focus involves streamlining processes and enhancing communication to support the safe and efficient development of the commercial space industry. The Office of Commercial Space Transportation Chief of Staff plays a vital role in advancing the agency's mission in this rapidly evolving field. JaDa Wells's leadership contributes to the effective management of complex regulatory frameworks governing space launches and re-entries. This position demands expertise in policy coordination and operational management within a specialized sector.

    Mark Seal - Supervisory Operations Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Jetblue Certificate, York

    Mark Seal, the Supervisory Operations Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Jetblue Certificate, York at Federal Aviation Administration, directs operational oversight and marketing functions related to specific aviation certifications in the York area. Seal's leadership ensures rigorous inspection protocols are maintained and that marketing efforts effectively communicate regulatory requirements and safety standards to certified entities, including those related to Jetblue. This executive's responsibilities encompass both the enforcement of aviation safety regulations and the strategic promotion of compliance best practices. The Supervisory Operations Principal & Inspector & Chief Marketing Officer, Jetblue Certificate, York is crucial for upholding the Federal Aviation Administration's commitment to safety and operational integrity within the region. Mark Seal's expertise drives adherence to standards and fosters positive engagement with aviation operators.

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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 Restituto Padilla (Chief Operating 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), Restituto Padilla (Chief Operating 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 Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff.