FAA Slaps SpaceX with Penalties for Breaching Launch License Regulations in 2023
Sept 17, 2024
The violations could result in fines totaling $633,009, according to the FAA's statement.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has accused SpaceX of committing three safety violations related to license requirements during two separate launches in 2023. The violations could result in fines totaling $633,009, according to the FAA's statement.
The first violation occurred on June 18, 2023, during the PSN Satria Mission, which launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. SpaceX allegedly violated its license by modifying its launch procedures without FAA approval, including using an unauthorized control room and skipping a required T-2 hour readiness poll. Despite being notified by the FAA on June 15 and 16 that the requested changes would not be approved in time for the launch, SpaceX proceeded with its modified plans.
The second violation took place on July 28, 2023, during preparations for the EchoStar XXIV/Jupiter mission at Kennedy Space Center. SpaceX requested to use a newly constructed rocket propellant farm, but the FAA did not grant approval. Nevertheless, the company went ahead with the launch using the unauthorized farm.
For the June 18 violations, SpaceX faces two fines of $175,000 each, while the July 28 violation could result in a $293,009 fine. SpaceX has 30 days to respond to the accusations. The company can request an informal meeting with an FAA attorney or provide additional information to dispute the charges.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, known for his outspoken views, responded swiftly. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that SpaceX will file a lawsuit against the FAA, accusing the administration of "regulatory overreach." As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether the fines will hold or if legal action will alter the outcome.
The FAA has published its enforcement procedures for public review, providing transparency into how the penalties may be processed if SpaceX does not successfully challenge the fines.
