WASHINGTON, March 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Air Transport Association (ATA) of America, the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, today applauded the administration's announcement that it will name industry veteran Randy Babbitt as Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

"Randy Babbitt is a superb choice to lead the FAA. He has both the experience and the leadership skills to drive the modernization of our aging air traffic management system and to improve relations with air traffic controllers," said ATA President and CEO James C. May. "I am enthusiastic about working with Randy, as well as Sec. LaHood, to increase the efficiency of air travel and to enhance what is already the safest aviation network in the world."

ATA airline members and their affiliates transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic. For additional industry information, visit www.airlines.org.

SOURCE Air Transport Association