FAA Proposes Doubling SpaceX Operations at Cape Canaveral

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced today its draft findings from an Environmental Assessment concerning a significant increase in launch operations at SpaceX‘s facility at Space Launch Complex 40. The proposal suggests more than doubling the annual Falcon 9 launches from 50 to a maximum of 120 starting in 2026.

In addition to the proposed increase in launch operations, the FAA outlined plans for a new landing zone at SLC-40, which would accommodate up to 34 first-stage booster landings each year. The Draft Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) suggests that this expansion would not significantly affect the quality of the human environment.

A virtual public meeting will take place on April 16, and the public comment period will remain open until April 24, 2025. Residents and interested parties are encouraged to participate and provide feedback on the draft assessment.

“The FAA has preliminarily concluded that the proposed action would not significantly affect the quality of the human environment,” the statement reads. “The Proposed Action is not expected to contribute in any substantial manner to adverse cumulative effects to supplies of natural resources or energy use.”

The Environmental Assessment is part of the requirements set forth by the Department of the Air Force (DAF) under the National Environmental Policy Act. The assessment addresses possible environmental impacts associated with the increased launch frequency and the new landing zone.

The FAA’s findings indicate that while some construction and development will occur in areas of both undisturbed and previously disturbed land, overall, the impact on local wildlife is expected to be minimal, as the habitats in the vicinity have limited ecological value.

“Cumulative loss and fragmentation of native upland and wetland habitats may result in some long-term effects on wildlife breeding and other habits, but the effects are anticipated to be temporary,” the FAA noted.

For those wishing to participate in the upcoming public meeting, registration is mandatory. Interested parties can register through the FAA webpage, and details for joining the virtual meeting will be provided upon registration.

The FAA is committed to incorporating community feedback and transparency in its assessment process as it evaluates the impacts of expanding SpaceX operations in the region. Further updates and details on how to submit comments can be found on the FAA’s official site.