what is faa

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is an operating mode of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It is the largest transportation agency of the U.S. government and regulates all aspects of civil aviation in the country as well as over surrounding international waters. The FAA is responsible for the safety of civil aviation, and it issues and enforces regulations and minimum standards covering manufacturing, operating, and maintaining aircraft. It also certifies airmen and airports that serve air carriers. Other key activities of the FAA include regulating U.S. commercial space transportation, promoting aviation safety, and encouraging civil aviation abroad. It exchanges aeronautical information with foreign authorities, certifies foreign repair shops, airmen, and mechanics, provides technical aid and training, negotiates bilateral airworthiness agreements with other countries, and takes part in international conferences.