FAA Proposes $633,000 Fine Against SpaceX

The FAA is proposing fines totaling $633,009 against SpaceX for allegedly violating launch licensing requirements during two 2023 missions. The violations include using an unapproved launch control room and bypassing mandatory pre-launch procedures during a June 2023 Falcon 9 launch, as well as utilizing an unapproved rocket propellant farm for a July 2023 mission. Elon Musk has strongly criticized the FAA, accusing it of regulatory overreach and favoritism towards Boeing, and has hinted at potential legal action against the agency. This is not the first time SpaceX has clashed with the FAA, as the company was previously fined $175,000 for failing to provide necessary trajectory data. The FAA emphasizes that compliance with safety requirements is critical for companies with commercial space transportation licenses.