FAA chief resigns after drunken driving charge

Federal Aviation Administration head Randolph “Randy” Babbitt submitted his resignation Tuesday following a drunken driving charge in Fairfax over the weekend. Babbitt was arrested late Saturday night after he was allegedly seen driving on the wrong side of the road. He was cooperative when arrested, and was released on personal recognizance.

In a statement, Babbitt said he had submitted his resignation to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Serving as FAA Administrator has been an absolute honor and the highlight of my professional career.   But I am unwilling to let anything cast a shadow on the outstanding work done 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by my colleagues,” Babbitt said. While his statement did not make mention of the arrest, it was clear the event precipitated his resignation.