What is the main function of the National Mediation Board (NMB) in the airline industry?

The primary function of the National Mediation Board (NMB) in the airline industry centers on overseeing the collective bargaining process between airlines and their employees, particularly in relation to union organization and representation. This involves supervising union elections to ensure they are conducted fairly and in accordance with the law.

The NMB plays a crucial role in facilitating the resolution of disputes in the labor-management relationship and ensuring that workers' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining are protected. This is distinct from regulating fares, which falls under the purview of the Department of Transportation, or establishing safety regulations, which is managed by the Federal Aviation Administration. Similarly, enforcing flight schedules is not within the scope of the NMB's responsibilities, making the focus on supervising union elections the correct answer to this question.