File image of a Detla 3 Launch
File image of a Detla 3 Launch |
"The FAA is continually looking for ways to improve safety while best serving our customers' needs," said Smith.
"This rulemaking goes a long way in securing the safety of commercial space launches for the public while cutting back on government red tape for launch operators."
Through this rulemaking, the FAA proposes to update and streamline its license application process for launches from U.S. territory or by U.S. citizens elsewhere.
The agency also intends to codify the safety requirements for launch operators regarding license requirements, criteria, and responsibilities in order to protect the public from the hazards of such launches.
These safety requirements would apply to all licensed launches of expendable launch vehicles whether from a federal launch site or a non-federal launch site.
This notice provides information regarding the criteria for obtaining a launch license, the responsibilities with which a launch licensee must comply, and operational requirements.
The FAA's overall goal is a streamlined licensing process that ensures public safety while providing performance standards, acceptable methodologies for meeting those performance standards, and flexibility.
The proposed requirements in this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) empower launch operators to perform many of the safety functions currently performed by federal launch range personnel.
This approach will allow a launch operator greater freedom to identify and implement efficient, cost effective safety processes designed to meet its specific needs.
The proposal was published in the Oct. 23 Federal Register. An electronic copy of the NPRM is available via the Internet docket number FAA-2000-7953.
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