Register

FAA Report Bodes Well for SpaceX Texas Launch Site

An artist’s rendering of Starship and Super Heavy in flight. SpaceX
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A new FAA draft report suggests SpaceX may be allowed to launch larger Super Heavy/Starship rockets from its Boca Chica, Texas site, finding no significant environmental impacts on noise, air quality, or climate change.
  • The report, however, notes that the proposed actions "may affect and is likely to adversely affect" several federally listed endangered species, requiring further consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • The FAA has opened a month-long public comment period, including virtual hearings, on the draft report before moving towards a final decision on SpaceX's launch license.
See a mistake? Contact us.

A new FAA draft report assessing potential environmental impact suggests SpaceX may ultimately be allowed to launch larger rockets from its Texas Boca Chica site.

Thom Patterson

Thom is a former senior editor for FLYING. Previously, his freelance reporting appeared in aviation industry magazines. Thom also spent three decades as a TV and digital journalist at CNN’s bureaus in Washington and Atlanta, eventually specializing in aviation. He has reported from air shows in Oshkosh, Farnborough and Paris. Follow Thom on Twitter @thompatterson.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE