As of May 4, 2026, Michael Daniel has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of JSC “Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan.” Mr. Michael holds a specialized aviation education, having graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a degree in Aeronautics, and brings over 40 years of experience in civil aviation. He began his professional career at the Federal Aviation Administration , where he held several key positions, including Flight Operations Inspector, Aircraft Certification Specialist, Head of Flight Safety, and Senior Manager for International Programs and Policy. Mr. Michael has worked in FAA international offices in Frankfurt, New York, and Washington. From 2006 to 2009, he led the FAA international offices in Singapore and Beijing, where he oversaw foreign repair stations and conducted international safety assessments. Throughout his career, he has led major international initiatives, including the APEC Transportation Safety and Aviation Working Group, supervised international oversight and safety assessment activities, held senior leadership roles, and collaborated extensively with the International Civil Aviation Organization. He brings substantial international expertise in flight safety, airline certification, and the development of state oversight systems in civil aviation. One of his key priorities will be advancing the launch of direct flights between Kazakhstan and the United States.