What act provides federal funding for public airports?

• A. Air Traffic Control Act
• B. Federal Airport Act of 1946
• C. Aviation Safety and Capacity Expansion Act
• D. Public Airport Development Act

Answer: (B)

The Federal Airport Act of 1946 established a framework for federal funding aimed specifically at the development and enhancement of public airports across the United States. This act marked a significant step by the federal government to support the aviation infrastructure essential for post-World War II economic expansion. By providing financial assistance for airport development, the act helped modernize and improve the facilities necessary for commercial air travel, ultimately leading to increased safety and efficiency in the aviation industry.

The other options listed, while related to aviation and airport management, do not primarily focus on federal funding for public airports in the same foundational manner as the Federal Airport Act of 1946. For example, the Air Traffic Control Act primarily addresses the operations and management of air traffic control systems rather than direct airport funding. The Aviation Safety and Capacity Expansion Act mostly targets safety improvements and enhancements in air traffic capacity rather than the funding aspect for public airport infrastructure. Similarly, the Public Airport Development Act, while relevant, is not the foundational act that first established federal funding mechanisms specifically for public airports.