Which regulatory body oversees the certification of airports in the United States?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the primary regulatory body responsible for overseeing the certification of airports in the United States. This includes the establishment of safety standards and operational procedures that airports must follow to ensure the safety of air travel. The FAA's responsibilities encompass the certification of airport facilities, the management of air traffic, and the regulation of aviation safety.

In addition to certifying airports, the FAA conducts inspections to ensure compliance with federal regulations and policies. They set guidelines for the design and operation of airports, determine eligibility for federal funding, and monitor ongoing adherence to safety protocols.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) primarily investigates transportation accidents, rather than managing the certification process for airports. The Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees transportation as a whole, which includes broader policies but does not focus specifically on airport certification. Air Traffic Control (ATC), while essential for the safe and efficient management of air traffic, does not have a role in the certification process of airports. Thus, the FAA is distinctly positioned as the authority for all matters concerning the certification and regulation of airports.