SpaceX challenges FAA's $630,000 fine in letter to Congress
SpaceX has taken its disagreement with the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to Congress, following a proposed fine of $630,000. The fine was levied against the company for allegedly bypassing regulations on two launches in 2023. In response to this action, SpaceX's CEO Elon Musk announced plans to sue the FAA for what he termed as "regulatory overreach."
SpaceX criticizes FAA's slow pace in congressional letter
The FAA's proposed fine is based on two SpaceX missions from last year: the PSN SATRIA and EchoStar XXIV/Jupiter 3 launches. According to the FAA, SpaceX violated regulations by using a new launch control room and eliminating a readiness poll without prior approval for the PSN SATRIA launch. For the EchoStar XXIV/Jupiter 3 mission, it allegedly used an unapproved rocket propellant farm at NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC).
SpaceX refutes FAA's allegations in detailed letter
In a detailed letter to Congress, SpaceX has refuted the FAA's allegations. The company argues that there is no regulatory requirement for a readiness poll two hours before lift-off, and that it conducts such a poll prior to propellant loading. The letter also questions why the FAA approved a waiver for using the propellant farm for another launch but not for the EchoStar XXIV/Jupiter 3 mission.
SpaceX accuses FAA of hindering American launch industry
In its letter, SpaceX also criticizes the FAA for allegedly impeding the progress of the American launch industry. The company expresses frustration over what it perceives as excessive regulation of its new rocket, Starship. According to SpaceX, readiness for Starship's fifth test flight has been delayed since early August due to pending FAA approval.
Musk criticizes FAA's inaction against Boeing
Musk has also criticized the FAA for not taking action against Boeing "for putting astronauts at risk." He accused the FAA of spending "their resources attacking SpaceX for petty matters that have nothing to do with safety" and neglecting real safety issues at Boeing. This criticism came after NASA confirmed plans to use a SpaceX Dragon Crew to return Boeing's Starliner astronauts due to technical problems with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
