The Senate on Wednesday confirmed Bryan Bedford as FAA administrator, putting a former airline executive in charge of the agency responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of the nation's air travel. The final vote was 53-43.

Democrats and flight safety advocates opposed Bryan Bedford’s nomination, citing his lack of commitment to the 1,500-hour training requirement for pilots that was put in place by Congress.

The U.S. Senate Wednesday voted 53 to 43 to approve long-time Republic Airways CEO Bryan Bedford to head the Federal Aviation Administration.