The FAA is considering new licensing fees for space companies seeking launch and reentry permits, aimed at bolstering its Office of Commercial Space Transportation as the sector expands. Under proposed legislation by Sen. Ted Cruz, these fees would be phased in over eight years and adjusted for inflation. Although the FAA's budget is slated for modest growth, it remains insufficient to support the booming industry, which saw a surge from 11 launches in 2015 to 164 last year, prompting concerns from companies like SpaceX regarding regulatory capabilities.
The FAA's commercial space office received a budget of $42 million, reflecting a significant funding challenge as the commercial launch industry rapidly grows and evolves.
The proposed fees for launch licenses are intended to establish a trust fund to cover the operating costs of the FAA's Office of Commercial Space Transportation.
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