NTSB Vice Chairman Michael Graham Retiring

Graham has served on the NTSB's five-member panel since 2020. Board members are presidential appointees confirmed by the U.S. Senate. Graham served as the board member on scene for the 2022 Wings Over Dallas midair collision; the 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio; the 2025 accident involving a Mexican naval vessel striking the Brooklyn Bridge; and others. Graham was an advocate for deploying connected vehicle technology, efforts to reduce distracted driving and expanding the adoption of safety management systems across all modes of transportation.

"Serving our nation as board member and vice chairman of the NTSB has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career," said Graham, a former F/A-18 pilot and top safety official for Textron Aviation Inc. "I want to thank President Trump for placing his trust and confidence in me for this position, and I am especially grateful for the dedicated safety professionals throughout the NTSB who have helped me fulfill this role. As I conclude my federal service and begin my retirement, I do so with immense pride in what has been accomplished and with confidence in the continued strength and importance of the NTSB's safety mission."

"Mike's integrity, hard work and passion for safety made him an incredible asset to the NTSB, and I am deeply grateful for his service," said NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy. "This is a job in which tragedy and loss are part of our daily work, and Mike's commitment to the NTSB's mission, expertise and coolness under pressure will be missed. I wish him and his family all the best in his retirement."