Which regulatory body oversees pilot certifications and aircraft operations in the U.S.?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing pilot certifications and aircraft operations in the United States. Established in 1958, the FAA develops regulations that ensure the safety of civil aviation and manages the air traffic control system. It is tasked with establishing pilot training standards, testing, and certification processes, as well as setting operational rules for airlines and general aviation.

The FAA's primary role includes issuing pilot certificates and ratings, enforcing compliance with aviation regulations, and overseeing the maintenance and operation of aircraft to promote safety in the aviation industry. This makes it the go-to authority for any matters related to aviation certification and operational guidelines.

While other organizations like NASA contribute to aviation research and development, the Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees broader transportation policy and planning, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) focuses on accident investigation and safety recommendations, none of these bodies handle the specific regulatory responsibilities of pilot certification and aircraft operation like the FAA does.