The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reached its 1,000th licensed or permitted commercial space operation, according to an announcement made by U.S. Transportation Secretary and Acting NASA Administrator Sean P. Duffy in Washington, D.C. The milestone reflects more than three decades of the FAA’s role in overseeing the safety and development of U.S. commercial space activities.
“The 1,000th FAA-licensed commercial space operation is a major milestone—one that showcases American innovation as we push the boundaries of what’s possible in the final frontier,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Together, the FAA and NASA are working to build a safe and vibrant U.S. commercial space industry that cements America’s leadership on the global stage. That means more great paying jobs, new technological advancements, and economic opportunity.”
The achievement comes during a period of significant growth for the industry. This week, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Enabling Competition in the Commercial Space Industry,” aimed at encouraging further innovation within the sector by reducing regulatory barriers.
As demand for launches increases, the FAA has taken steps to streamline regulations while prioritizing public safety. The agency is implementing Part 450 license rules designed to simplify application procedures for launch and reentry operations, allow multiple missions under one license, and lower administrative costs for companies involved in commercial space transportation.
“The FAA is dedicated to providing safe, efficient, and timely access to space, helping ensure the U.S. remains the global leader in space transportation, innovation, and safety,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “This milestone wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated commercial space team, whose work makes every launch and reentry possible. At this pace, we’ll reach the next 1,000 missions in less than five years.”
Currently seven operators hold Part 450 licenses with several others progressing through approval stages.
For additional details about these developments and related initiatives from the agency, readers can consult this fact sheet: https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/detail/commercial-space-launches-fact-sheet.
