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FAA Has Grounded Virgin Galactic As It Investigates Flight Path Concerns

The Unity 22 crew experiences zero gravity during a July 11 flight. Meg Scarbrough
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA has grounded all Virgin Galactic flights to investigate Richard Branson's July Unity 22 spaceflight.
  • The probe was initiated after reports claimed the ship veered off course during descent, exiting its designated air traffic control clearance area.
  • Virgin Galactic acknowledges the flight path deviation due to high-altitude winds but maintains the flight was safe and pilots responded appropriately, with no danger to passengers or crew.
  • A former Virgin Galactic test pilot, however, disputes the company's claims, asserting pilots failed to trim, winds were normal, and the craft entered unauthorized airspace.
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The FAA has grounded all Virgin Galactic flights as it investigates a July launch that sent billionaire founder Richard Branson into space.

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