Elaine Chao, President-elect Trump’s pick to head the Transportation Department, said Wednesday that the incoming administration has not taken a position on privatization of air traffic control.
She said the administration would listen to all sides on the issue, including Congress. She said the administration would formulate a position only after weighing the evidence and a “national consensus” had formed.
“I am open to all ideas,” Chao said at a Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee hearing on her nomination.
“I am cognizant of those who are in favor it. I am cognizant of those who have safety concerns.”
The privatization issue is highly controversial in the aviation industry, which Chao alluded to in her response. When Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., the committee’s top Democrat, asked her if she could explain the administration’s position on the issue, Chao quipped: “I’d like to be confirmed first,” drawing laughter.
