SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION APPOINTS AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN TO AVIATION RULEMAKING ADVISORY COMMITTEE

CENTENNIAL, CO — December 8, 2020 — The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) applauds Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao for her decision to appoint an aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) to the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC). AMFA Executive Director of Government Affairs and Southwest Airlines AMT Justin Madden’s appointment to the ARAC fills a critical void in the Committee’s membership.

AMFA National Director Bret Oestreich stated, “The AMT is a highly educated and skilled professional charged with inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing aircraft to ensure the safety and security of the flying public. Justin’s appointment is recognition of that role. He represents what is best about our profession: his breadth of experience is wide ranging and his passion for the craft is unmatched. He will be an asset to the Committee, Secretary Chao, and FAA Administrator Dickson.”

AMFA would like to thank U.S. Representative John Katko (NY-24) for his leadership in making sure the AMT perspective is included. “Representative Katko understood early that an integral safety voice was missing from ARAC,” Mr. Oestreich said, “and he continuously advocated for a craft specific union to represent the AMT perspective on the Committee.”

In addition to his role with AMFA, Mr. Madden is an FAA certified and practicing airframe and powerplant (A&P) AMT with over 20 years of experience, including serving honorably in the United States Marine Corps. He is also a member of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Aviation Safety Advisory Committee (ASAC), having been appointed by the TSA Administrator to multiple terms.

Contact: Justin Madden, Executive Director of Government Affairs
Email: Justin.Madden@amfanatl.org