What governs air traffic control regulations regarding aircraft age classifications?

Air traffic control regulations regarding aircraft age classifications are primarily governed by government safety standards. These standards are established by aviation regulatory authorities, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States or similar bodies in other countries, which set rules and requirements to ensure that all aircraft meet specific safety and performance criteria.

Government regulations assess factors such as maintenance requirements, operational capabilities, and safety measures that must be adhered to, depending on the age and type of aircraft. This regulatory framework is essential to maintaining safety in the aviation industry, as older aircraft may require more stringent maintenance checks and operational limitations to ensure they remain safe to fly.

While airline company policies may influence operational use and scheduling of their fleets, and international aviation agreements play a role in harmonizing regulations across borders, the primary source for determining age classification and the associated regulatory requirements stems from the safety standards enforced by governmental authorities. The inherent airworthiness of the aircraft is a consideration; however, it is closely tied to the regulations established by these safety standards, which dictate how age may affect airworthiness and operational capabilities.