FAA deputy chief Chris Rocheleau to leave agency after 18 months

The Federal Aviation Administration’s deputy chief, Chris Rocheleau, confirmed he will leave the agency after eighteen months in the role, with his final day slated for the following week. Rocheleau’s internal memo, sent on July 30, thanked colleagues and expressed optimism about the FAA’s future direction. His stint included acting as administrator during the fallout from the fatal 2025 midair collision near Washington and steering initiatives to upgrade the aging air-traffic control network and promote new technologies such as air taxis.

Before his federal service, he held the chief operating officer position at the National Business Aviation Association, a post he will reassume according to the association’s statement. Throughout his time at the FAA, Rocheleau was instrumental in advancing modernization projects. His departure marks a transition for the regulator as it continues to implement these reforms.