What is the primary role of the FAA?

The primary role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is to govern all U.S. air carriers, overseeing various aspects of civil aviation to ensure safety and efficiency in the air transportation system. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including the establishment of regulations that both commercial and general aviation must follow, ensuring that all airline operations, maintenance, and pilot training adhere to safety standards.

In fulfilling this role, the FAA is involved in regulating the operational aspects of airlines, including their safety protocols and compliance with federal aviation laws. By effectively governing air carriers, the FAA helps maintain a structured airspace system and works to enhance safety across the aviation industry, which is crucial for protecting the public and ensuring the smooth functioning of air travel.

While conducting aircraft inspections, regulating air traffic, and assigning flight crews may be parts of the overall aviation framework, they do not encompass the full regulatory authority that the FAA exercises over all aspects of U.S. air carriers. The FAA's regulatory role is broad and vital for maintaining the integrity and safety of the aviation system as a whole.