Which act preceded the Civil Aeronautics Act of 1938 in the sequence of aviation regulation laws?

• A. Civil Aeronautics Act of 1938
• B. Reorganization Act of 1939
• C. Federal Aviation Act of 1958
• D. Air Commerce Act of 1926

Answer: (D)

The sequence question tests your knowledge of the historical order of U.S. aviation regulation. The first broad step in federal civil aviation regulation was the Air Commerce Act of 1926. It established the initial federal role, giving the Department of Commerce authority to license pilots, certify aircraft, register planes, and oversee airways and related safety activities. This set the groundwork for federal oversight of aviation.

The Civil Aeronautics Act of 1938 came later and built on that foundation, creating a formal Civil Aeronautics Authority to expand safety regulation, air navigation, and enforcement powers. So, when asked which act preceded the 1938 law, the Air Commerce Act of 1926 is the correct predecessor—the earlier step that started federal aviation regulation. The other options occurred after 1938 or reorganized agencies later, not before the 1938 act.