SpaceX faces $633,009 in FAA fines for unapproved mission changes

SpaceX faces $633,009 in proposed fines from the FAA for launching missions with unapproved changes. The agency cites violations related to the PSN SATRIA mission and the EchoStar Jupiter satellite launch. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has threatened legal action, accusing the FAA of “regulatory overreach.”

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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposed substantial fines totaling $633,009 against SpaceX. The penalties are for two incidents where the company allegedly launched missions with unapproved modifications in violation of its license and skipped required procedural steps.

The FAA’s proposed fines include $350,000 for a June 18, 2023, launch involving the PSN SATRIA mission. The agency claims that SpaceX used an “unapproved launch control room” and failed to conduct a mandatory “T-2-hour readiness poll.” Despite requesting approval for these changes in May, the company proceeded without receiving it.

Additionally, SpaceX is facing a $283,009 penalty for a July 28, 2023, launch of the EchoStar Jupiter communications satellite. The FAA alleges that SpaceX sought clearance for a new rocket propellant farm in July but did not wait for approval before proceeding with the launch.

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In response to the FAA’s actions, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has threatened to sue the agency, accusing it of “regulatory overreach.” Musk’s remarks came via X (formerly Twitter), where he criticized the FAA’s approach. This isn’t the first time SpaceX has clashed with government entities; the company has previously filed complaints against the National Labor Relations Board and the federal government over contract disputes.

The FAA’s fines underscore its commitment to ensuring that space missions adhere to regulatory requirements, aiming to prevent potential safety and operational issues. SpaceX, known for its ambitious space endeavors, now faces the challenge of addressing these regulatory concerns while navigating the legal and financial implications.