Ted Cruz Questions NTSB Nominee on Aviation Safety and ADSBN Technology

Aviation Safety Experience

• ✈️ John Deleeuw, nominee for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), has over 15 years of experience in aviation safety roles at American Airlines and the Allied Pilots Association.
• 💡 His work has involved safety management systems, including safety promotion, policy, risk management, and assurance.
• 🛠️ Deleeuw has been involved in voluntary confidential reporting programs like the Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) and flight data monitoring (F4Q).
• ✅ He also participated in a continuous LOSA program and a learning and improvement team, and was part of a joint committee for the 737 Max return to service.

ADSBN Technology and Implementation

• 📡 Senator Ted Cruz highlighted his Rotor Act legislation, which mandates ADSBN technology for aircraft in controlled airspace to improve situational awareness.
• 📈 Deleeuw expressed strong support for ADSBN, noting that American Airlines has equipped many aircraft with the technology and found it beneficial.
• 🤝 He acknowledged initial skepticism from pilots and controllers but stated that the system has proven to improve safety, save lives, and reduce controller workload.
• 💰 The primary challenge to implementation is cost, though there appears to be industry-wide support for ADSBN.

Railroad Project Concerns

• 🌉 Senator Cruz inquired about potential operational roadblocks from Union Pacific concerning a railroad project linked to the Puertoverte Bridge between Texas and Mexico.
• ✅ Deleeuw committed to working with Senator Cruz to ensure the project sponsors receive a fair opportunity to complete their project.