FAA Fines SpaceX $633,000 for Regulation Violations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a $633,000 fine for SpaceX for launching without a permit in June and July 2023. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker defended the fine and the delay of future launches, while Elon Musk criticized the FAA for focusing on minor issues instead of real safety concerns.

The head of the Federal Aviation Administration defended the agency's proposed $633,000 fine for Elon Musk's SpaceX for violating agency rules ahead of launches in June and July of 2023. 'They launched without a permit,' FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker said at a U.S. House subcommittee defending the fine. 'It's the only tool we have to get compliance on safety matters.' Whitaker also defended a delay of forthcoming launches.

Musk last week attacked FAA leaders saying they were penalizing SpaceX 'for petty matters that have nothing to do with safety, while neglecting real safety issues at Boeing. This is deeply wrong and puts human lives at risk.'

(With inputs from agencies.)