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In addition to deregulation of the domestic airline industry, the United States Government has worked diligently to liberalize the operating environment for international air services as well. The operations of the U.S. airlines in international markets have changed significantly over the past 25 years as a result of these efforts. The United States has successfully negotiated more liberal agreements with foreign countries, making it possible for U.S. airlines to provide travelers and shippers with service all over the world. U.S. and foreign airlines have forged comprehensive operational relationships that have further increased the choice of services available to consumers. Travelers have benefited from these changes by receiving more services, more choices in the carriers offering them, and lower fares and rates.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is responsible for promoting U.S. carrier access to foreign markets and competition in international markets. It is also responsible for reducing trade barriers and facilitating the export of domestic transportation goods and services. In conjunction with these responsibilities, the DOT negotiates bilateral and multilateral agreements, together with counterparts from the U.S. Department of State, with foreign trade partners; licenses both U.S. and foreign airlines to serve international markets; assesses the public and competitive benefits of U.S. and foreign airline alliances and code-share arrangements, and exercises regulatory oversight of international aviation pricing issues, including inter-carrier fare and rate agreements. The DOT also acts on complaints of U.S. airlines experiencing difficulties in foreign markets and intervenes to resolve those problems. In addition, the DOT coordinates multi-modal trade and technical assistance efforts, administers transportation issues in trade agreements, such as NAFTA, and coordinates the Secretary’s involvement in travel and consultations on international trade and transportation issues. These responsibilities frequently involve coordination with other U.S. government agencies, and international organizations, including ICAO, IATA, WTO, APEC, ECAC, and the competition and trade authorities of our foreign partners.

The Office of International Transportation and Trade, the Office of International Aviation, and the Office of Aviation Analysis manage and administer the Office of Aviation and International Affairs’ international responsibilities. Click here for a list of international programs, issues, and topics these offices are currently involved with.