Phil Washington, President Joe Biden's pick to lead the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has withdrawn his nomination just days after the Senate Commerce Committee postponed the vote to advance his nomination to the Senate floor. Washington, the current CEO of Denver International Airport, has no prior experience in the aviation industry, having only taken up the post nearly two years ago. His lack of aviation experience was a major concern among committee members and he had faced steady criticism from Republicans, which had ultimately led to his withdrawal.

The aviation system has been showing signs of strain with an uptick of near-collisions on runways, making it increasingly imperative for the FAA to have a confirmed leader. Unions representing 75,000 flight attendants had backed Washington's nomination, as had some former agency leaders who believed that his role as an outsider could have been a significant benefit in seeking to reform an agency that has faced major struggles in recent years. The White House has pledged to swiftly consider and confirm a new nominee for the position.