Deadly Mid-Air Collision In US Renews Scrutiny On FAA Hiring As Trump Slams DEI Focus

US President Donald Trump has blamed diversity policies implemented during the Obama and Biden administrations for compromising air safety standards, NDTV reported.

His statement came after a tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter, which resulted in no survivors.

The crash, which left no survivors, has reignited debates about the impact of such policies on air safety standards.

Trump’s comments have sparked a discussion on the influence of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

He asserted that these initiatives have placed political priorities ahead of safety, stating, "I put safety first. Obama, Biden, and the Democrats put policy first."

He also claimed, "They actually came out with a directive: 'too white.' And we want the people that are competent".

The deadly mid-air crash occurred when an American Airlines flight collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter while preparing to land at Reagan Washington National Airport.

The Bombardier CRJ-700 jet carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while the helicopter had three soldiers on board.

The FAA’s recruitment policies have faced criticism, with opponents arguing that DEI initiatives may lead to discriminatory hiring practices.

Proponents, however, argue that such programmes aim to correct systemic barriers and promote equal opportunities for historically underrepresented groups, including racial minorities.

Trump criticised former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, suggesting that under his leadership, individuals with disabilities and psychological conditions were hired for air traffic control positions despite being unqualified.

Expressing skepticism about their competence, Trump remarked, "I don't think so."

He further accused the FAA of being "ran into the ground" by DEI hires after the agency was deemed "too white."

In the wake of the crash, Trump has appointed Chris Rocheleau as the acting FAA administrator, signaling upcoming scrutiny of the agency’s hiring policies and safety protocols.

The FAA’s hiring policies saw significant changes during the Obama administration, including the introduction of a biographical test for air traffic controller applicants. This initiative aimed to enhance workforce diversity but has drawn criticism from those who argue it prioritizes diversity over competence.

Also Read: Passenger Plane Crashes With US Army Black Hawk Near Washington DC, Rescue Operations Underway