The U.S. Senate has confirmed Robert Sumwalt as NTSB Chairman for a two-year period during a vote Thursday. Congress said it had formally nominated Sumwalt for the position at the end of June after receiving the nomination from President Donald Trump. Sumwalt had served as acting chairman.

Aviation associations have come out in support of the /confirm/iation, including Helicopter Assn. International (HAI) and National Business Aviation Assn. (NBAA).

"His focus on safety leadership has helped promote the importance of proactive safety management," read a statement on NBAA's website. "Further, his diligent work on safety awareness and leadership has greatly influenced business aviation."

"His vast range of experience includes working with airlines and general aviation," said Matt Zuccaro, president and CEO of HAI. "He has also been one of the staunchest supporters of safe helicopter operations, for which we are grateful."