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The FAA has released a Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) to warn air carriers and general aviation operators of the risks space launch activities present to aircraft operations.
The administration states that operators and pilots must account for potential disruptions as commercial and government space launch activities increase. Launches can cause debris fields that are hazardous when flying. ATC has Airspace Management Plans (AMP) that depict Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR), Aircraft Hazard Areas (AHA), and Debris Response Areas (DRA) associated with space launch and reentry. AHAs are to separate air traffic from areas where a spacecraft is planned to launch or land and are sent out via NOTAMs. DRAs are issued by the FAA during unplanned catastrophic events involving falling debris.
During those catastrophic events, the SAFO states that ATC will issue an alert broadcast to all affected aircraft and inform them of the approximate fall area if its know. Aircraft will be rerouted to avoid the DRA and keep in contact with the pilots to ensure safety. The FAA further warned that debris may extend past the designated DRA and would require additional situational awareness. DRAs also do not extend into oceanic and non-radar airspace.
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The FAA states that during pre-flight planning, operators should review Space Launch Potential Danger Area NOTAMs, identify potential delays and alternate airports and consider cancellations or reroute options, if necessary. Operators, pilots and dispatch personnel need to be trained on the impact of space launch or reentry and the appropriate response actions. The administration recommends attending its ATCSCC Operations Planning Webinar, which further advises on aircraft operations during space launches and reentries.