Trump's personal pilot on shortlist to lead the Federal Aviation Administration

Officials say he is more qualified for the job than many people may realise

President Donald Trump walks toward the White House with Marine One pilot James Thompson Jr. (Getty Images )

President Donald Trump’s personal pilot is reportedly being considered to lead the Federal Aviation Administration.

Axios reported that John Dunkin, who flew Mr Trump around the country on a Boeing 757 during the 2016 presidential campaign, is on the Trump administration’s shortlist to head the agency that regulates civil aviation in the US.

A White House official told the Washington Post that Mr Dunkin has had a preliminary conversation with administration officials about the job.

Government officials that spoke with Axios and the Washington Post defended the possible pick of Mr Dunkin, saying he is more qualified for the job than many people may realise.

“John Dunkin isn’t just a pilot,” an unnamed administration official told Axios. “He’s managed airline and corporate flight departments, certified airlines from start-up under FAA regulations, and oversaw the Trump presidential campaign’s air fleet, which included managing all aviation transportation for travel to 203 cities in 43 states over the course of 21 months.”

Mr Trump told airline executives a year ago that one of his most trusted sources regarding the nation’s aviation system was his personal pilot.

“I have a pilot who’s a real expert,” Mr Trump said. “My pilot, he’s a smart guy, and he knows what’s going on.”

Former FAA deputy administrator Dan Elwell has been serving as acting administrator since last month, when the five-year term of Michael Huerta ended. Mr Elwell is a former airline executive, while Mr Huerta previously held senior positions in the US Department of Transportation.

The White House did not immediately respond to The Independent‘s request for comment.