Air Commerce Act

United States [1926]

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

The Air Commerce Act of 1926 was a landmark piece of U.S. legislation that aimed to promote and regulate civil aviation. Aviation industry leaders believed that standardized safety regulations were crucial for improving aircraft security. In response, President Calvin Coolidge signed the act into law, leading the U.S. Department of Commerce to establish an aeronautics branch for aviation oversight. This branch later evolved into the Bureau of Air Commerce in 1934. The act was a foundational step in the development of aviation law and regulation in the United States, paving the way for future agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

history of flight
From airmail to airlines in the United States
The following year, the Air Commerce Act established a bureau to enforce procedures for the licensing of aircraft, engines, pilots, and other personnel. The former act stimulated design and production of advanced planes to compete with rival carriers; the latter reassured insurance companies, private investors, and banks that safety…
Read More
The following year, the Air Commerce Act established a bureau to enforce procedures for the licensing of aircraft, engines, pilots, and other personnel. The former act stimulated design and production of advanced planes to compete with rival carriers; the latter reassured insurance companies, private investors, and banks that safety…
Read More