Federal Register #2026-20391

FAA proposes lightning hazard mitigation exception for certain commercial space operations

The FAA proposes a safety-rule exception for certain commercial space launch and reentry operations. - Government buyer: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Office of Commercial Space Transportation. - Proposal: Allow an exception to specified lightning hazard mitigation requirements during descending flight phases when the vehicle’s remaining flight path, including potential debris, is physically constrained to an area clear of the public and critical assets. - Applicant requirements: Explain how flight-path limits are determined and how the area is kept clear. - Procurement status: This is a proposed rulemaking, not a procurement or award. No OEMs, vendors, products, or services are identified.

Description

The Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend its commercial space launch and reentry licensing regulations to streamline licensing and reduce regulatory burden. The proposal would create an exception to lightning hazard mitigation requirements for certain descending flight phases when the vehicle’s further flight path, including possible debris, is constrained to remain within an area clear of the public and critical assets. Applicants using the exception would need to provide information about the flight path limits and how the area is cleared. Comments are due November 4, 2026.

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