Prior to being named FAA Administrator , Blakey served as chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board ( NTSB ) from September 26 , 2001 , to September 13 , 2002 . During her tenure , she led a number of accident investigations including the crash of American Airlines Flight 587 in November 2001 , dealing with both the highly technical aspects of the investigation as well as the highly charged public interest in the accident . Blakey worked to improve the Board 's accident reporting process and increased industry and regulatory responsiveness to NTSB safety recommendations . Additionally , Blakey strengthened the Board 's advocacy and outreach programs to promote safer travel throughout all modes of transportation . She also furthered development of the NTSB Academy as an international resource to enhance aviation safety and accident investigations
American Airlines Flight 587
American Airlines Flight 587
Marion Blakey