FAA Proposes Rules to Govern U.S. Expendable Launches

The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a proposed rule setting forth requirements for obtaining a license to operate an expendable space launch vehicle. The FAA proposes to update and streamline its license application process for launches from U.S. territory or by U.S. citizens elsewhere. The agency also intends to codify the safety requirements for launch operators regarding license requirements, criteria, and responsibilities in order to protect the public from the hazards of such launches. These safety requirements would apply to all licensed launches of expendable launch vehicles whether from a federal launch site or a non-federal launch site. The proposal also provides information regarding the criteria for obtaining a launch license, the responsibilities with which a launch licensee must comply, and operational requirements.

The proposed requirements in this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) empower launch operators to perform many of the safety functions currently performed by federal launch range personnel. This approach will allow a launch operator greater freedom to identify and implement efficient, cost effective safety processes designed to meet its specific needs. 

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