SpaceX fined for Violating Launch Rules Amid Safety Concerns
SpaceX fined a $633,000 penalty for violating US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules during two 2023 launches. The FAA’s Administrator, Mike Whitaker, defended the fine at a recent US House hearing, emphasising that SpaceX must maintain the “highest level of safety.” Whitaker stressed that SpaceX, now 20 years old, needs to adopt key safety protocols, including a safety management system (SMS) and a whistleblower programme.
SpaceX Disputes Violations
SpaceX strongly denied Whitaker’s claims, asserting that it is “the safest, most reliable launch provider in the world” and remains committed to safety. The company argued that the FAA’s claims, including the failure to obtain necessary approvals for a communications plan during a June 2023 launch, were incorrect.
However, Whitaker pointed to specific violations. He noted that SpaceX launched without a permit for both the June and July 2023 launches in Cape Canaveral, Florida. He stated that enforcing safety regulations through fines is the only tool available to ensure compliance.
Starship 5 Launch Delays
The upcoming launch of SpaceX’s Starship 5 has also faced delays. The FAA explained that SpaceX had failed to conduct a timely sonic boom analysis, pushing back the licensing decision until late November. Whitaker also mentioned that SpaceX had not disclosed certain violations of Texas and federal law, which is a requirement for obtaining a permit.
When questioned on how SpaceX could expedite the launch process, Whitaker simply replied, “Complying with the regulations would be the best path.”
Musk Criticises FAA’s Fine
Elon Musk took to social media to criticise the FAA’s fine, arguing that the agency was focusing on “petty matters” unrelated to safety while neglecting critical issues at Boeing. Musk expressed concern that this disparity in treatment puts human lives at risk. Whitaker, however, maintained that all companies, including Boeing and SpaceX, should face equal oversight, and both should implement safety management and whistleblower programmes.
Despite these tensions, Whitaker remained firm on the need for SpaceX to comply with FAA regulations. In a previous instance, SpaceX paid a $175,000 fine for failing to submit required safety data before an August 2022 Starlink satellite launch.
