FAA’s Chief Counsel David Grizzle has been tapped to lead the agency’s Air Traffic Organization (ATO), Administrator Randy Babbitt announced July 7. Grizzle will replace Hank Krakowski, who stepped down from the chief operating officer spot following a series of high-profile incidents involving air traffic controllers sleeping while on duty.
“David is committed to transparency, accountability, and to building a safety culture that encourages collaboration. I am thrilled that he has agreed to accept this critical responsibility,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt.
Grizzle, who became FAA’s chief counsel in 2009, has been filling the role of chief operating officer since mid-April. Before joining FAA, he worked with Continental Airlines and its affiliates for 22 years.
“David Grizzle has proven to be a strategic thinker and a strong manager as both chief counsel and acting COO for the FAA. He’s been sensitive to the priorities and concerns for the business aviation community, and he understands the industry’s important role in our air nation’s transportation system,” Ed Bolen, president of the National Business Aviation Association, said following the announcement.