Commuter airlines make up the fastest growing segment of the air transportation industry. Beginning in the early 1960s the regional/commuter airline industry has become an integral part of the air transport network in the United States. Since deregulation, the number of regional/commuter passenger enplanements has increased more rapidly than for the major carriers. This growth is expected to continue as the majors turn over more short-haul, low-density routes to the commuters. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the industry and the primary operating and management functions of a typical commuter airline. Part 1 presents the origin and development of commuters, the regulatory environment in which they operate, the structure of their industry and the important role they play. Part 2 begins with a description of the FAA certification process and is followed by coverage of market measurement, forecasting and planning. Part 3 addresses the future outlook for US regional airlines.