All of its standards are set by government. Much of its scheduling is controlled by government. And major parts of its facilities are owned by government. Yet, the corporations keep all the money they make. That would be the commercial airline industry, of course.
Taxpayers pay for the airports.
FAA sets all standards, but FAA is actually charged with promoting air travel and the commercial airline industry as much as regulating it. So, that industry gets all types of breaks that industries like trucking and busing do not get. Nearly the same type of arrangement is enjoyed by the national media. The FCC controls and promotes broadcasting in this nation. Supposedly, we are to have a free press.