The FAA last Thursday published its proposed rules to govern the operation of commercial space flight. The 120-page document mainly covers qualification and training for the crew and passengers — but the FAA doesn’t call them passengers. They are “space flight participants … not a typical passenger with typical expectations of transport, but someone going on an adventure ride.” Participants would not be required to have a physical exam, but the FAA would recommend it. They also must be informed of the risks and be told that the U.S. government has not certified the space vehicle as “safe.” Flight crew must have FAA pilot and medical certificates and an instrument rating. The experimental permit for spacecraft is covered in a separate rulemaking, the FAA said. The FAA invites comment on its proposal until Feb. 27. Comments can be logged or viewed online; enter docket number 23449.
FAA Unveils Rules For Space Tourism Operators
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA has published proposed rules for commercial space flight, primarily focusing on qualifications and training for "space flight participants" and flight crews.
- "Space flight participants" are not considered typical passengers; they are not required to have a physical exam (though recommended), must be informed of risks, and the U.S. government will not certify vehicles as "safe."
- Flight crew members operating commercial spacecraft will be required to hold FAA pilot and medical certificates, along with an instrument rating.
- The FAA is inviting public comments on these proposed regulations until February 27.
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