Which agency regulates airport operations in the United States?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the primary agency responsible for regulating airport operations in the United States. This agency sets the standards and regulations for civil aviation, which includes overseeing the safety and operational efficiency of airports. The FAA establishes guidelines for the design, construction, and operation of airports to ensure safety and compliance with federal laws. Additionally, it provides funding for airport infrastructure improvements through various grant programs, ensuring that airports can maintain and enhance their operations.

The FAA's role extends to a wide variety of responsibilities, including air traffic control, the certification of pilots and aircraft, and the establishment of safety regulations that airports must follow. This comprehensive regulatory framework is crucial for maintaining the high safety standards expected in U.S. aviation.

Other agencies, while involved in specific aspects related to aviation or transportation, do not directly regulate airport operations like the FAA does. For instance, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and regulations that can affect airports regarding environmental assessments and compliance but is not responsible for the operational regulations of the airports themselves. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigates aviation accidents and incidents to enhance safety but does not enforce regulations. Lastly, the Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees several aspects of transportation but delegates the specific regulatory