The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the primary governing body for all aspects of civil aviation within the United States and its international waters. Their oversight is vast, covering pilots and airmen (certification and medical standards), aircraft (design, manufacturing, and maintenance certification), and airlines (operational safety and economic authority). They also oversee airports that serve scheduled air carriers, ensuring runways and lighting meet safety codes. Beyond traditional flight, the FAA manages the National Airspace System, directing all air traffic control for both civil and military aircraft. In the modern era, their jurisdiction has expanded to include Commercial Space Transportation (licensing private launches and reentry) and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones), regulating both recreational and commercial drone operators. Essentially, if an object or person is involved in civilian flight or space activities in the U.S., they fall under the FAA's safety, regulatory, and enforcement umbrella to ensure the world's busiest airspace remains secure.