What is the first step in the approval process for a foreign airline's operation in the U.S.?

The first step in the approval process for a foreign airline's operation in the U.S. involves consultation with the State Department. This step is crucial because international aviation agreements and air service operations are generally governed by treaties between nations, and the U.S. Department of State plays a key role in these international negotiations. The State Department assesses the foreign airline's application in relation to existing bilateral agreements and other foreign policy considerations.

Only after this consultation is conducted does the process move on to other stages, such as obtaining the necessary operating authority from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and facilitating coordination with relevant aviation authorities, like the FAA. Therefore, recognizing the State Department's role as the initial step underscores the importance of international relations in the approval process for foreign air carriers seeking to operate in the U.S.