"Ensuring Aviation Safety: Returning to Merit-Based Hiring at the FAA"

An executive order mandates merit-based hiring and performance reviews within the FAA to prioritize aviation safety, aiming to replace underperforming employees and bolster public confidence. This action counters previous DEI initiatives deemed detrimental to safety, sparking concerns about potential alienation of underrepresented groups and challenges in implementation. The order seeks to ensure the highest standards of competency and qualification in all FAA personnel, potentially leading to workforce morale impacts and public perception issues. The effectiveness of this approach hinges on balancing safety priorities with inclusive practices.