Regulations

Strict rules and regulations are needed to ensure the safety of air travel for passengers, crew, and people on the ground. Various government agencies and industry organizations establish and enforce compliance with these aviation regulations.

FEDERAL AVIATION REGULATIONS (FAR)
The FARs contain the basic rules for operating aircraft, air traffic control, airmen certification, and performing aircraft maintenance in the United States. They are issued and enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and cover topics like pilot licensing, aircraft airworthiness, emergency procedures, and flight operations. All participants in the U.S. aviation system must abide by the FARs.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL (ATC)
Air traffic controllers follow standards and procedures set by the FAA to guide aircraft safely and efficiently through U.S. airspace. These ATC regulations cover topics like separation minima, communication protocols, handling emergencies, and handing off aircraft between controllers. Controllers must be thoroughly trained and certified to ensure compliance with ATC rules.

SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (SMS)
SMS is a proactive approach used within the aviation industry to identify, address and mitigate safety risks. SMS requirements established by the FAA and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) obligate certificate holders like airlines and maintenance operators to develop risk-based policies, procedures, and training to improve operational safety. An effective SMS culture is key to identifying potential hazards before incidents occur.

In summary, aviation regulations establish clear rules, policies, and procedures that mitigate risk and ensure a high level of safety within the complex U.S. air transportation system. Strict compliance, oversight, and enforcement by government agencies and industry stakeholders helps maintain aviation’s excellent safety record.