What organization is responsible for the safety of civil aviation in the United States?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the organization responsible for ensuring the safety of civil aviation in the United States. This federal agency has a broad range of responsibilities that include regulating civil aviation safety, overseeing air traffic control operations, setting regulations for the construction and operation of aircraft, and managing the national airspace system. The FAA establishes safety standards, conducts inspections, and provides oversight to maintain and promote safety in aviation.

By focusing on the safety of air travel, the FAA plays a crucial role in protecting passengers, crew members, and the public from aviation-related hazards. The agency is involved in policy-making and enforcement to ensure that commercial airlines, as well as private and general aviation, adhere to strict safety regulations.

In contrast, while the Department of Transportation oversees various aspects of transportation, including aviation, it is the FAA that specifically focuses on aviation safety. Air Traffic Control is a function within the FAA that manages aircraft movements in the sky and on the ground but does not have the regulatory powers that the FAA holds. The Civil Aeronautics Board was dissolved in the 1980s, and its responsibilities were transferred to the FAA, making it no longer a relevant organization concerning current aviation safety.

Understanding the FAA's role helps flight attendants and aviation personnel