Virgin Galactic has just announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) approved the company’s existing commercial space transportation operator license to allow the spaceline to fly customers to space. This came after an extensive review of data gathered from its successful May 22 test flight. Read more for a news segment and additional information.
During the May 22nd test flight of VMS Eve and VSS Unity, the spaceplane achieved a speed of Mach 3 and reached space at an altitude of 55.5 miles. The rocket-powered test confirmed that the spaceship’s upgraded horizontal stabilizers and flight controls performed in line with predictions, thus allowing for finer pilot control.
The cabin environment data was in line with predictions.
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We’re incredibly pleased with the results of our most recent test flight, which achieved our stated flight test objectives. The flight performed flawlessly, and the results demonstrate the safety and elegance of our flight system. Today’s approval by the FAA of our full commercial launch license, in conjunction with the success of our May 22 test flight, give us confidence as we proceed toward our first fully crewed test flight this summer,” said Michael Colglazier, Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Galactic.
