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Appendix B

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Glossary
Sources and Acknowledgements

You've seen me mention FAA a lot, and FAA regulations. Well, what exactly is FAA??

The FAA, which stands for Federal Aviation Administration is a part of the United States Government, and regulates all of the safety standards for all civil aviation. The FAA was established by the Federal Aviation act of 1958. It was originally known as the Federal Aviation Agency, but was transformed to the Federal Aviation Administration when the FAA became a component of the Department of Transportation in 1967. The FAAs major functions include:
*Regulating civil aviation to promote safety an fulfill the requirements of national defense
*Encouraging and developing civil aeronautics, including new aviation technology
*Developing and operating a common system of air traffic control and navigation for both civil and military aircraft
*Research and development with respect to the National Airspace System and civil aeronautics
*Developing and implementing programs to control aircraft noise and other environmental effects of civil aviation
*Regulating United States commercial space transportation

All information obtained about the FAA was taken respectfully from http://www.faa.gov/apa/history/overvue.htm. To learn more about FAA please visit their website at www.FAA.gov

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Activities

Safety Regulation. The FAA issues and enforces regulations and minimum standards relating to the manufacture, operation, and maintenance of aircraft. The agency is responsible for the rating and certification of airmen and for certification of airports serving air carriers. It also regulates a program to protect the security of civil aviation, and enforces regulations under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act applicable to shipments by air.

Airspace and Air Traffic Management. The safe and efficient utilization of the navigable airspace is a primary objective of the FAA. The agency operates a network of airport towers, air route traffic control centers, and flight service stations. It develops air traffic rules, allocates the use of airspace, and provides for the security control of air traffic to meet national defense requirements.

Air Navigation Facilities. The FAA is responsible for the construction or installation of visual and electronic aids to air navigation, and for the maintenance, operation and quality assurance of these facilities. Other systems maintained in support of air navigation and air traffic control include voice/data communications equipment, radar facilities, computer systems, and visual display equipment at flight service stations.

Civil Aviation Abroad. As mandated by legislation, the FAA promotes aviation safety and encourages civil aviation abroad. Activities include: exchanging aeronautical information with foreign authorities; certifying foreign repair shops, airmen, and mechanics; providing technical assistance and training; negotiating bilateral airworthiness agreements; and providing technical representation at international conferences.

Commercial Space Transportation. The agency regulates and encourages the U.S. commercial space transportation industry. It licenses commercial space launch facilities and private sector launching of space payloads on expendable launch vehicles.

Research, Engineering, and Development. The FAA engages in research, engineering, and development aimed at providing the systems and procedures needed for a safe and efficient system of air navigation and air traffic control. The agency performs an aeromedical research function and supports development of improved aircraft, engines, and equipment. It also conducts tests and evaluations of specified items such as aviation systems, devices, materials, and procedures.

Other Programs. The FAA provides a system for registering aircraft and recording documents affecting title or interest in aircraft and their components. Among other activities, the agency: administers an aviation insurance program; develops specifications for aeronautical charts; and publishes information on airways and airport services as well as on technical subjects relating to aeronautics.

Organization
The FAA is headed by an Administrator who is assisted by a Deputy Administrator. Reporting to the Administrator are six Associate Administrators who direct the line-of-business organizations that carry out the agencies principle functions. Also reporting to the Administrator are the Chief Counsel and nine Assistant Administrators responsible for other key programs. The FAAs field organization includes nine geographical regions and two major centers, the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center and the William J. Hughes Technical Center.