SpaceX Receives FAA Authorization for Three Starship Test Flights

SpaceX is actively progressing with the testing and development of its Starship spacecraft. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted authorization for the company to conduct its next three test flights from the launch complex located in Boca Chica, Texas.

Previous Approvals and Current Batch

Prior launch approvals were issued on a case-by-case basis. However, the FAA has opted to approve these three flights concurrently. This decision stems from the fact that SpaceX is implementing only minor modifications to the launch vehicle.

Furthermore, the company utilized a methodology previously approved by the FAA to assess the potential risk to the public.

Upcoming Launch of SN15

SpaceX is preparing to launch its SN15 test Starship potentially as early as this week. A key condition of this launch is the presence of an FAA inspector at the Boca Chica facility during the launch event.

The regulator has dispatched an inspector, anticipated to arrive today, which could facilitate a launch attempt within the next few days.

Recap of the SN11 Flight Test

The most recent test flight from Boca Chica involved the launch of SN11, which took place in late March. Unfortunately, the flight concluded with an explosion.

Despite a largely successful initial ascent to approximately 30,000 feet and a successful flip maneuver, the incident was triggered by a malfunction in one of the Raptor engines responsible for controlling the vehicle’s powered landing.

FAA Investigation and Public Safety

The FAA has stated that the investigation into the SN11 incident is still ongoing. Nevertheless, the agency has determined that any public safety concerns arising from the mishap have been addressed.

Approval Details for SN15, SN16, and SN17

The approval license encompasses flights for SN15, SN16, and SN17. However, the FAA has indicated that subsequent flights, specifically SN16 and SN17, may necessitate additional “corrective action” before launch.

This potential requirement is contingent on the outcome of the SN15 launch and whether any unforeseen “mishap” occurs.

FAA and SpaceX Perspectives

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, has occasionally expressed criticism towards the FAA. He has suggested the agency lacks the flexibility and responsiveness needed to accommodate SpaceX’s rapid iteration and testing pace in Starship’s development.

Conversely, some members of Congress have proposed that the FAA may not have been sufficiently thorough in its independent investigations of previous Starship testing incidents.

The FAA maintains that the absence of any adverse impact on public safety demonstrates the effectiveness of its oversight program to date.