What did the Air Commerce Act of 1926 prohibit?

The Air Commerce Act of 1926 was a significant piece of legislation aimed at promoting civil aviation in the United States. One of its key provisions was the prohibition of using federal funds for the construction or improvement of airports without specific regulations and oversight. This was a foundational law that established a framework for federal involvement in aviation while setting boundaries regarding financial support to ensure proper coordination and safety standards.

The focus of the Act was not primarily about restricting airport improvements themselves, but more on ensuring that any federal involvement adhered to regulatory measures that would support safe and viable aviation practices. Hence, the prohibition on using federal funds was to maintain this level of control and oversight within the growing aviation sector.