January 21, 2025

Executive Order: Keeping Americans Safe in Aviation

Holland & Knight Eyes on Washington Blog
Natalie Gilbert
Trump's 2025 Executive Orders: Updates and Summaries

Date Issued: Jan. 21, 2025

Executive Summary

This executive order suspends all diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including those pertaining to recruitment and hiring, within the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It aims to establish capability, achievement and dedication as the basis for hiring and promoting practices within these federal agencies.

Policy Actions

  • Rescind all DEI initiatives and "dangerous" preferencing policies or practices within the DOT and FAA. These agencies will immediately return to what the order describes as "non-discriminatory, merit-based hiring."
  • The U.S. secretary of transportation and the federal aviation administrator shall review the performance of all individuals in critical safety positions and ensure any incapable individuals are replaced.

Trump's 2025 Executive Orders: Updates and Summaries

Holland & Knight's Public Policy & Regulation Group is reviewing President Trump's 2025 Executive Orders and other actions. To read all Executive Order Updates and Summaries, visit our landing page.

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