FAA

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is a governmental body of the United States with powers to regulate all aspects of civil aviation in the country as well as over its surrounding international waters. The FAA was created in 1958 under the Federal Aviation Act and is a part of the United States Department of Transportation.

History

The FAA was established in response to a series of mid-air collisions that highlighted the need for a centralized regulatory body to oversee aviation safety. Initially known as the Federal Aviation Agency, it was later renamed the Federal Aviation Administration when it became part of the Department of Transportation in 1967.

Responsibilities

The FAA's primary responsibilities include:

• Regulating civil aviation to promote safety and fulfill the requirements of national defense.
• Encouraging and developing civil aeronautics, including new aviation technology.
• Developing and operating a system of air traffic control and navigation for both civil and military aircraft.
• Researching and developing the National Airspace System and civil aeronautics.
• Regulating U.S. commercial space transportation.
• Regulating air navigation facilities' geometry and flight inspection standards.
• Issuing, suspending, or revoking pilot certificates.
• Regulating civil aviation to promote safety.

Organizational Structure

The FAA is headed by an Administrator, who is appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. The agency is divided into several offices and regions, each responsible for different aspects of aviation regulation and safety.

Major Offices

• Air Traffic Organization (ATO): Manages the air traffic control system.
• Aviation Safety (AVS): Oversees the safety of civil aviation.
• Airports (ARP): Provides leadership in planning and developing a safe and efficient national airport system.
• Commercial Space Transportation (AST): Regulates the commercial space launch industry.

Air Traffic Control

The FAA operates the largest and most complex air traffic control system in the world. The system is designed to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft through the national airspace.

Research and Development

The FAA conducts research to improve aviation safety and efficiency. This includes work on new technologies, such as NextGen, which aims to modernize the air traffic control system.

International Role

The FAA works with international aviation authorities to harmonize regulations and improve global aviation safety. It is a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Also see

• Air Traffic Control
• NextGen
• International Civil Aviation Organization
• Department of Transportation