AoC number

222

Primary domain

SPACE

Secondary domain

AU

Description

In Europe, EASA is working to identify the best approach to accommodate sub-orbital flights into the European Aviation Regulatory System. Developments are taking place, however, it is uncertain which regulatory approach will be pursued for this emergency industry.

Potential hazard

  1. Design features or operating practices resulting in a serious or fatal injury
  2. Failure to implement certification requirements in a timely manner due to pushback from industry.

In the USA, the Commercial Space Launch Amendment Act (CSLAA) aimed to promote the development of emerging commercial human space flight industry is to postpone the ability by the FAA, to issue safety standards and regulations, except for aspects of public safety, until December 23, 2012, or until an accident occurs.

Corroborating sources and comments

Marciacq, J-B, Morier, Y., Tomasello, F., Erdelyi, Z. and Gerhard, M., “Accomodating Sub-Orbital Flights into the EASA Regulatory System”, 2008 & 2010 (papers).

Sgobba, T and Trujillo, M., “ESA Human Rating Tailoring for Sub-Orbital Vehicles”, 2nd IAA Conference on Private Human Access to Space, 2011

Material from: 14th FAA Commercial Space Transportation Conference

Last update

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