FAA Hits SpaceX with $633,000 Fine Over 2023 Launch Violations

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a $633,000 fine against SpaceX for violating safety regulations during two launches in 2023. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker stated that SpaceX operated without necessary permits and failed to comply with federal safety guidelines. SpaceX disputes the FAA's claims, asserting their commitment to safety.

Elon Musk's SpaceX must operate at the "highest level of safety," the head of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said on Tuesday. The FAA proposed a $633,000 fine against the company for violating safety regulations ahead of two launches in 2023.

"They've been around 20 years, and I think they need to operate at the highest level of safety," FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker told a U.S. House hearing. "They launched without a permit," he said, referring to launches in June and July 2023 in Cape Canaveral, Florida. SpaceX strongly disputed Whitaker's comments, stating that every statement he made was incorrect.

The FAA said SpaceX's violations included failing to obtain approval for a revised communications plan for a June 2023 rocket launch. Whitaker also defended a delay of a forthcoming Starship 5 launch due to SpaceX failing to complete a timely sonic boom analysis and not disclosing legal violations. SpaceX, however, maintains that it did not violate any laws and is fully committed to safety in all operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)