What was a significant effect of the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978?

The Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 had a profound impact on the airline industry by effectively dissolving the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), which had been responsible for regulating the industry before deregulation. The CAB's dissolution marked a significant shift from a highly regulated environment to one where market forces would dictate airline operations, pricing, and routes. This change facilitated competition among airlines, allowing new entrants to emerge and existing airlines to have greater flexibility in making operational decisions. As a result, consumers benefitted from increased competition, which often led to lower fares and more choices in air travel options. The dissolution of the CAB was a pivotal moment that ushered in a new era for the airline industry, characterized by deregulation and greater market-driven dynamics.