SpaceX has been monitored by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for violating safety regulations related to two launches in 2023.
The head of the FAA, Mike Whitaker, emphasized the need for SpaceX to maintain the "highest level of safety," referring to issues such as the company's failure to obtain permits required for certain launches and a proposed fine of $633,000.
SpaceX, however, refutes these claims, stating that it is the safest launch provider in the world.
Elon Musk criticized the FAA for focusing on "small things" with SpaceX while ignoring more critical issues with Boeing.
The FAA, in response, insisted that all companies, including SpaceX and Boeing, must adhere to the same safety standards, such as having a Safety Management System (SMS) and a whistleblower program.
The controversy extended to the launch of Starship 5 which was delayed by SpaceX due to an incomplete safety assessment, specifically a sonic boom analysis.
Despite the disagreements, the FAA insists that complying with the rules is key for SpaceX to move forward with future launches.
