Jeffrey Parrish, age 15, of Brownsville, Texas, for his question:

WHEN WAS THE CIVIL AERONAUTICS BOARD ESTABLISHED?

The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) is as independent agency of the United States government created by Congress in 1938 to promote and regulate the airline industry. Acting under the authority of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, the CAB has jurisdiction over active American air carriers.

The board is authorized to set fair and reasonable rates for domestic air transportation. It has jurisdiction over agreements under with U.S. flag carriers participate in the International Air Transport Association. Decisions of the CAB affecting international service require approval of the President. Those decisions affecting domestic service do not.

The board is composed of five members appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Headquarters is in Washington, D.C.

In 1978 Congress passed legislation that limits CAB authority over pricing and provided for the abolition of the board.