NBAA welcomes new Secretary of Homeland Security

Viva NBAA 2013

The National Business Aviation Association has welcomed the appointment of Kirstjen Nielsen as Department of Homeland Security Secretary.

Nielsen was confirmed in her new role by the US Senate yesterday, by a vote of 62 to 37. She replaces John Kelly, who is now White House chief of staff.

NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen said: “NBAA has always had a productive and collaborative relationship with the Department of Homeland Security, in the development of effective, risk-based policies that recognise the characteristics that are unique to business aviation operations.

“Secretary Nielsen has extensive experience in the security arena, including in matters related to aviation, and we look forward to working with her, as we have with her predecessors.”

Nielsen has previously been president of a security consultancy, special assistant to President George W Bush for prevention preparedness and response on the White House Homeland Security Council, and head of the Transportation Security Administration’s legislative policy office.