The Federal Aviation Administration just recently issued an updated a Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) warning over the heightened risk of space debris on major flight paths.
It says, as space launches become more regular, airlines need more robust contingency plans to deal with possible space debris.
“It is imperative that airspace users account for potential disruptions due to launch operations. Air Traffic Control implements airspace restrictions and hazard mitigation measures to protect aircraft from potential hazards due to launch anomalies,” the SAFO states.
The SpaceX explosion in January 2025 caused major flight disruptions in Caribbean airspace, leading to delays landing and diversions.
Qantas revealed services to and from Africa had to be retimed on several occasions due to falling space debris over the Indian Ocean.
Although the FAA cites an increasing risk, so far, no commercial aircraft has been struck by any suspected space debris.
The FAA expects from 200 to 400 launch and re-entry flights a year by 2034, far exceeding the current annual number.
