There are many similarities between how people use their automobiles and how general aviation (GA) pilots use their small airplanes. So, if you know anything about how America's roads and highways work, then you're well on your way to understanding America's air transportation system.

To help you understand general aviation (GA), we are going to break it down into its most basic elements: pilots, aircraft, navigation and communication, airports, airways, the cost of flying, airspace, air traffic control, funding, and the Federal Aviation Administration.