Airports and Aviation

Airports and aviation cover commercial and private flying, the airports that serve it, and the government oversight that keeps it safe. The Federal Aviation Administration regulates aircraft, pilots, and air traffic, the Transportation Security Administration handles screening, and local authorities run most airports. Federal and state funds support airport construction and operation.

People usually ask how regulators keep flying safe, who controls air traffic, and what identification and security rules apply to travelers. They also ask how airports are funded and governed, how airline and aircraft problems are investigated, and how government responds to safety concerns such as cabin air quality and flight scheduling.