Trump administration removes key safety board member amid investigations

In the United States, the Trump administration recently dismissed Alvin Brown from his position as vice chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The White House confirmed this abrupt decision, which comes as the NTSB actively investigates nearly 1,250 cases nationwide. Brown was appointed in December 2024 during the final days of the Biden administration and had a term expected to last until 2026. This dismissal is particularly notable as it marks a rare move for an administration, especially given the significant number of ongoing investigations, including those related to major transportation accidents. Brown, who previously served as the mayor of Jacksonville, Florida, was the only Black member on the board, bringing diversity to the leadership of this independent agency. The NTSB is tasked with investigating serious transportation incidents and developing safety guidelines to prevent future occurrences. This change in board leadership follows a troubling history of deadly accidents, including a January 2025 incident where a midair collision resulted in 67 fatalities near Washington, D.C. With four other members, all appointed by Trump, the NTSB’s leadership would now exclusively reflect the current administration's preferences. This is particularly controversial given the board's crucial role during a time when the agency is under scrutiny for its handling of transportation safety and accident investigations. Jeff Guzzetti, a former NTSB and FAA accident investigator, expressed surprise at the removal, noting that such action is generally unprecedented. The normal course involves members serving past their appointed terms until replaced. The National Transportation Safety Board usually manages about 2,200 domestic cases and coordinates 450 foreign cases yearly, with leadership changes seemingly having little effect on the case load. However, the manner in which Brown was removed raises questions about the administration's commitment to independent oversight and safety regulatory processes.