FAA Releases Guide for Commercial Space Permits
Published Date: 7/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The FAA just dropped a helpful guide for anyone wanting to get a commercial space license or permit. It explains the whole process from early chats with the FAA to final approval, making it easier and clearer to navigate. If you’re planning to launch or operate in space, check it out and send your thoughts by August 19, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Draft guide for commercial space applicants
The FAA released draft Advisory Circular AC 413.5-1 that explains the pre-application consultation and full lifecycle for commercial space licenses and permits. It describes steps including early and formal pre-application consultation, application submission, initial application screening, FAA evaluation and determination, compliance monitoring, and license modification requests.
AC is an accepted means of compliance
The FAA states that this Advisory Circular is an accepted means of compliance with the regulatory requirements of 14 CFR Sec. 413.5. If you are a prospective applicant, following the AC is presented by FAA as an accepted way to meet the pre-application consultation requirement in Sec. 413.5.
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