Sept 25 V7N- The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reinforced its call for SpaceX to operate at the "highest level of safety," following violations during two launches in 2023. The FAA proposed a $633,000 fine against SpaceX for conducting the launches without proper permits and failing to meet regulatory requirements, including not completing a communications plan and sonic boom analysis.

FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker emphasized that ensuring safety compliance is critical for the agency, and defended the fine as necessary to maintain safety standards. He also noted that SpaceX had launched without the required permits, calling it the FAA’s "only tool" for enforcing compliance.

SpaceX strongly disputed Whitaker’s claims, asserting that the company operates with safety as a top priority and denied any legal violations. Elon Musk criticized the FAA, accusing the agency of focusing on "petty matters" while neglecting safety issues at Boeing.

Whitaker emphasized that all space companies, including SpaceX and Boeing, should face equal oversight and adopt safety management systems and whistleblower programs.

The issue has brought renewed attention to the regulatory landscape surrounding private space companies, particularly as SpaceX seeks approvals for future launches, such as the delayed Starship 5 mission.

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