The Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 (Public Law 95-504) amended the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to shift the U.S. air transportation system away from heavy government regulation toward open market competition, allowing competitive forces to determine airline prices, routes, and service quality. The law established key policy priorities including maintaining safety as the highest concern, preventing monopolistic practices, encouraging new carriers to enter the market, and preserving scheduled service to small communities. While focused on economic deregulation rather than noise policy directly, the resulting surge in air traffic growth it enabled has significant implications for airport noise management planning.Open full document
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Public Law 95-504, the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978, amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to shift air transportation policy toward competitive market forces. The Act adds new definitions, revises the declaration of policy to prioritize competition, safety, and low prices, and establishes federal preemption provisions. It aims to encourage entry of new carriers, prevent monopolistic practices, and maintain service to small communities.