Can a Spaceplane Obtain an Airworthiness Certificate for Commercial Flight Like a Typical Airplane?
For many enthusiasts and professionals in the aerospace industry, the question of whether a spaceplane can obtain an airworthiness certificate similar to that of a traditional airplane is both intriguing and complex. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plays a crucial role in regulating both air and space vehicles, raising questions about the feasibility of commercializing space travel on a par with conventional flight.
Challenges and Current Regulations
Despite advancements in space technology, it's important to understand that there are no FAA-certified 'space planes' or reentry vehicles in the commercial sense. Unlike typical aircraft, spaceplanes face unique challenges due to their mission-specific nature and limited operational envelope. Boeing's experience with the 787 Dreamliner provides a useful parallel. Several production models had to undergo rigorous testing over hundreds, if not thousands, of flying hours within the flight envelope to achieve certification. This extensive testing is a requirement that is nearly impossible for start-up space companies to meet.
FAA Licensing and Reentry Protocols
Spaceplanes or reentry vehicles are licensed on a case-by-case basis by the FAA. This licensing is specifically for each launch, and it is predicated on the expectation of a very high probability of failure during reentry. In fact, the FAA assumes a 100% probability of a complete failure and the total destruction of everything aboard the vehicle during reentry. This assumption guides the selection of the reentry ground track, which is meticulously planned to minimize the risk to people and infrastructure below.
Passengers and crew on such flights must also sign a waiver. This waiver is a formal acknowledgment of the risks involved and the provision of a minimum level of flight training, all approved by the FAA. The rigorousness of these safety measures reflects the critical nature of reentry operations, which are inherently more dangerous than regular commercial flights.
Historical Context and FaA Regulations
A prime example highlighting the unique challenges of space travel is the Space Shuttle. If the Space Shuttle had been a commercial vehicle instead of a joint NASA/Air Force project, it is highly unlikely that it would have obtained FAA certification for many of its reentry ground tracks. This underscores the strenuous regulatory hurdles and the highly specialized nature of reentry operations.
For a spaceplane to be considered for commercial flight, it would have to navigate a web of regulations that prioritize safety above all else. Experimental certifications exist, but these are not typically extended to space planes for commercial operations. Instead, they are reserved for experimental aircraft that may someday lead to more robust commercial ventures.
Conclusion
In summary, the stringent requirements and specialized nature of reentry make it highly unlikely for a spaceplane to obtain an airworthiness certificate for commercial flight similar to that of a typical airplane. The FAA's regulations reflect the unique and complex challenges inherent in space operations, ensuring that both air and space travel remain as safe as possible.
Further Reading
To gain a deeper understanding of FAA regulations and space travel, visit the FAA/AST website for comprehensive information. As a contractor for the FAA/AST, I have assisted in determining low-probability ground tracks for reentry, and I can attest to the meticulous processes involved.