Trump Orders FAA to End DEI Initiatives, Prioritize Merit and Safety-Focused Hiring

Jan 22, 2025, 02:59 AM

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order directing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to end all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The order mandates a shift to merit-based and safety-focused hiring practices, emphasizing capability and competence over identity factors such as race and gender. The directive also includes a review of the performance and standards of individuals in critical safety positions within the FAA. Trump criticized the previous administration for prioritizing DEI hiring practices, which he claimed violated public trust and safety standards. This move follows a broader rollback of DEI programs across federal agencies, reinforcing Trump's commitment to restoring merit-based and non-discriminatory hiring in the federal government. The Secretary of Transportation has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of these changes.