Canyonman

Former pilot union president Duane Woerth is among the names said to be at the top of the list, but reports over the weekend suggested both Woerth and Robert T. Herbert are among those who might be selected to lead the FAA. While Woerth is a familiar name for many longtime aviators (Woerth was president of the Air Line Pilots Association from 1999-2007), the less familiar Herbert has worked as a longtime aide to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. Herbert's aviation experience spans both military and civilian piloting and he has "advised Reid on transportation, defense and homeland security issues," according to the Washington Post. Reid has backed Herbert, sending a letter to President-elect Barack Obama's transition team, the Post said, while Herbert has recently sought the audience of "aviation-related unions." Meanwhile, Woerth carries the clout of union experience and some insiders believe that positions him as the one best able to navigate the maze of contract issues and labor disputes that frequently complicate matters between the FAA, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) and the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).

Huck

Bill's brother? No wait, it's spelled differently.....

AerisArmis

Maybe he'll steal the appointment!

Phantom Flyer

If Duane Worthless lands the job, it will be three steps backward for the pilot group in this country. He was never a positive influence in negiotiating contracts at the major carriers and seemed to be interested in one one significant project; promoting himself. In my view, that's tantamount to pouring gasoline on smolder ashes in hopes the fire will go out. He never provided leadership at ALPA National and spent his time socializing inside the Beltway.

G'Day Mates and may the Good Lord help us all.

Spur38

Herbert is the clear chioce! With the abundance of negative comments in this and many other blogs or aviation related publications, Woerth's selection to head the FAA it is apparent trouble for the industry.
On the other hand, having known Robert Herbert for the past twenty years, I can attest to the fact that he is well suited for the position. As well as being one of the best aviators that I have ever flown with, his real strength lies in his ability to lead, negociate and effect positive change. I have seen him take the lead to establish a strong team effort during union, personnel and policy disputes; where all walk away from the table feeling just decisions are being implemented. Herbert is a master at collectively organizing and developing positive results wether the subject is military, union or transportation related issues. The FAA would be in good hands with Herbert at the helm!