Starship's seventh test disintegrated less than 10 minutes after liftoff, showering debris over Caribbean airspace and forcing multiple aircraft carrying about 450 people to divert. FAA records say air traffic controllers "scrambled" and learned of falling wreckage only after pilots reported encounters. The FAA is investigating and reviewing SpaceX procedures while regulators consider stricter, mandatory notification rules to protect aviation safety and the environment.
Report: SpaceX Starship Breakup Showered Debris Over Caribbean, Forced Multiple Aircraft To Divert
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A SpaceX Starship test vehicle broke apart less than 10 minutes after liftoff from Texas, showering debris across Caribbean airspace and forcing several commercial and private aircraft to change course, according to Federal Aviation Administration documents obtained by The New York Post.
What happened: Starship's seventh test — a roughly 400-foot launch vehicle — disintegrated during flight, scattering wreckage that endangered three aircraft carrying about 450 passengers combined. FAA records cited by the report say air traffic controllers "scrambled to get planes to safety" as crew and pilots encountered falling debris.
Aircraft interruptions: A JetBlue flight bound for San Juan, Puerto Rico, was warned it would continue "at your own risk." An Iberia passenger jet and a smaller private aircraft altered course to avoid potential collisions. One pilot issued a "mayday" three times before making an urgent landing; officials say all passengers and crew on the aircraft involved were unharmed.
FAA findings: The FAA concluded that SpaceX did not notify air traffic controllers through the proper channels after the rocket failed. Miami-based controllers reportedly became aware of falling fragments only after other aviators reported encountering debris in flight.
Environmental and safety concerns: Falling rocket parts pose risks beyond immediate threats to aircraft. Fuel residues, metal shards and other fragments can contaminate marine and terrestrial environments, potentially harming wildlife and ecosystems if toxic materials enter water or food chains.
Regulatory response: The FAA is investigating the incident and reviewing SpaceX's notification and safety procedures. Regulators are reportedly considering stricter requirements, such as mandatory immediate notification to air traffic controllers during launch emergencies, to better protect aviation safety and the environment.
Public action: Advocates say citizens can press lawmakers to demand greater accountability from private space operators as commercial launch activity increases. Clearer communication protocols and stronger oversight could reduce risks to passengers, airspace users and ecosystems.
Source: FAA records cited by The New York Post. All reported passengers and crew reached the ground without injury.
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