What was the purpose of the Air Commerce Act of 1926?

The purpose of the Air Commerce Act of 1926 was primarily to standardize and regulate commercial aviation. This landmark legislation marked a significant step towards the federal government taking an active role in overseeing the burgeoning aviation industry. Through this act, the government sought to promote the safety and reliability of air travel, which was essential for fostering public confidence and encouraging the growth of commercial aviation.

The act laid the groundwork for the establishment of air traffic regulations, certification of pilots and aircraft, and the development of navigational aids. This comprehensive regulatory framework was vital as it helped to ensure that aviation could grow safely and efficiently as a new mode of transportation. The federal oversight provided by the Air Commerce Act helped to ensure that varied private sector interests operated under a unified set of safety and operational standards, which was necessary for managing the complexities of air travel.

This act's emphasis on regulation and standardization directly addressed the needs of a nascent aviation industry and was a crucial step in establishing the principles of aviation safety and infrastructure that would evolve over the years.