Virgin Galactic Cleared to Fly After FAA Investigation

Virgin Galactic Cleared for Future Flights After FAA Investigation

The Federal Aviation Administration has concluded its investigation regarding the July 11th flight of Virgin Galactic, which carried founder Richard Branson and three crew members. This flight marked the company’s inaugural dedicated passenger spaceflight.

Investigation Findings and Future Protocols

The FAA’s inquiry centered around a flight path deviation during the mission. Future flights will incorporate expanded airspace reservations and enhanced communication protocols. However, the company has been authorized to resume flights following the investigation’s completion.

Reports surfaced, notably in The New Yorker, suggesting that VSS Unity, the spacecraft utilized for the flight, ventured outside its designated airspace. Furthermore, the descent employed a potentially riskier approach than initially planned.

Details of the Flight Anomaly

The incident involved what was described as a “red-light entry glide-cone warning.” This occurred because the spacecraft’s initial ascent rate was insufficient. Consequently, pilots utilized an alternative descent method to return to the landing site.

While Virgin Galactic acknowledged that high altitude winds influenced the flight trajectory, deviating from the original plan, the company maintained that passenger safety was never compromised. They characterized the “red-light” description as inaccurate.

FAA Concerns and Corrective Actions

The FAA’s primary concern stemmed from the spacecraft’s departure from its approved flight zone. This led to a temporary grounding of Virgin Galactic’s operations while the matter was investigated.

Protected airspace is crucial for minimizing potential ground damage. Although Spaceport America is located in a remote area, adherence to flight zone boundaries is paramount.

Enhanced Safety Measures

To prevent similar occurrences, Virgin Galactic will now reserve a larger volume of airspace for each flight. This will provide a buffer for potential trajectory variations.

Additionally, the FAA expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of real-time communication regarding the flight anomaly. New procedures have been implemented to ensure immediate notification of any deviations in the future.

Virgin Galactic’s Response

Michael Colglazier, CEO of Virgin Galactic, stated: “We appreciate the FAA’s thorough review of this inquiry.” He further emphasized that the company’s test flight program is designed for continuous improvement.

Colglazier added that the updates to airspace protocols and real-time mission notifications will bolster preparations for the upcoming commercial launch of their spaceflight experience.