NTSB Proposal To Investigate Space Flight Incidents Draws Pushback
A National Transportation Safety Board proposal that would allow it to investigate space flight incidents has sparked pushback from the FAA, which already has jurisdiction over the space industry.
In 2014, the NTSB led an investigation of the Virgin Galactic SpaceShipTwo test flight breakup that ended in the death of one pilot and severe injuries to another.
Key Takeaways:
The NTSB's proposal to extend its investigative authority to commercial spaceflight incidents faces significant pushback from the FAA, which asserts its sole jurisdiction over the industry.
Opponents, including the FAA, members of Congress, and companies like SpaceX, argue that NTSB's expanded role could negatively impact the nascent commercial space industry's growth, economic competitiveness, and the current "learning period" with reduced regulation.
The NTSB defends its proposed authority by citing its historical involvement in major space accident investigations and viewing spaceflight as another mode of transportation, clarifying it would not investigate every single mishap.
A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) proposal that would allow it to investigate space flight incidents has sparked pushback from the FAA, which already has jurisdiction over the space industry.
The effort was introduced in November in the midst of a year of spaceflight dominated by private industries.
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Jeremy attained his bachelor's in journalism and emerging media from Kennesaw State University. He also served in the Georgia Air National Guard as a C-130 Crew Chief for six years, holding an associate in aircraft maintenance technology.
