Which agency is responsible for aviation oversight and regulation in the U.S.?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the agency responsible for aviation oversight and regulation in the United States. This includes ensuring the safety, efficiency, and environmental protection of civil aviation operations. The FAA regulates all aspects of civil aviation, including aircraft design and manufacturing, pilot training and certification, air traffic control, and airport operations.

The FAA's role also involves setting and enforcing aviation safety standards and regulations, overseeing the national airspace system, and managing the licensing of pilots and mechanics. The agency works to promote the advancement of aviation and ensures compliance with established safety protocols and operational practices.

In contrast, other agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency focus on environmental protection and regulations, the Department of Transportation encompasses a broader range of transportation sectors, and Air Traffic Control is a service provided by the FAA rather than an independent regulatory body. Each of these entities has important functions, but only the FAA has the specific mandate to oversee and regulate aviation operations in the U.S.