The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated that SpaceX conduct a thorough investigation into the recent Starship launch failure on 16 January 2025. which resulted in the vehicle’s loss.
While no public injuries have been reported, the FAA is actively working with SpaceX and relevant authorities to confirm reports of potential property damage in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Starship’s seventh test flight on January 16th ended in a spectacular explosion over the Atlantic Ocean. Following the launch, the Super Heavy booster made a successful return to the launch site. However, the Starship upper stage experienced an anomaly during ascent, leading to its catastrophic breakup.
The incident resulted in a temporary disruption of commercial air traffic in the vicinity of the debris field. The debris footprint was reported to be north of the Dominican Republic, near the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The explosion caused a delay in flights departing from Miami International Airport as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of aircraft. Some flights were diverted to other airports while the debris field was assessed and cleared.
The FAA implemented a Debris Response Area as a precautionary measure. This action involved briefly slowing down or grounding aircraft in areas potentially affected by falling debris.
Several aircraft requested diversions due to low fuel levels while holding outside the impacted zones.
FAA’s Role in Commercial Space Transportation
The FAA has a primary responsibility: safeguarding the public during all phases of commercial space transportation, including launches and re-entries.
This commitment to public safety is integral to the FAA’s licensing and permitting processes, safety inspections, and the investigation and corrective action procedures following any mishap.
Understanding the Investigation Process
Mishap investigations are crucial for enhancing public safety. They aim to pinpoint the root cause of the incident and identify corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
The FAA will play a pivotal role throughout the SpaceX-led investigation, including approving the final report and any proposed corrective measures.
A return to flight will only be permitted after the FAA confirms that all systems, processes, and procedures related to the mishap do not pose a risk to public safety.

Responding to a Mishap
All licensed commercial space transportation operators are required to have an FAA-approved mishap plan outlining procedures for reporting, responding to, and investigating mishaps.
Following a mishap, the licensed operator is responsible for:
- Implementing their established mishap plan.
- Activating necessary emergency response services to protect public safety and property.
- Containing and minimizing the consequences of the mishap.
- Preserving data and physical evidence for the investigation.
- Promptly reporting the mishap to the FAA’s Washington Operations Center.
- Submitting a preliminary written report to the FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation within five days of the event.
During the operator-led investigation, the FAA will provide oversight to ensure compliance with the mishap investigation plan and other regulatory requirements.
The FAA will also coordinate response planning with relevant agencies, including NASA, the NTSB, and the U.S. Space Force.
The duration of a mishap investigation can vary significantly. While some investigations may conclude within weeks, more complex incidents may require several months to complete.

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