The FAA welcomes international inquiries about its commercial space transportation regulations.

As the capabilities of the commercial space industry expand, regulators face new challenges to maintain public safety while enabling industry growth.

Since 1989,  the FAA has licensed or permitted more than 900 commercial operations to include space launches and reentries. The FAA also licenses the operation of spaceports (non-federal launch sites).

U.S. law and FAA regulations can serve as a framework for other countries to consider as they develop their own regulation of commercial space launches, reentries and spaceports. In addition, U.S. launch or reentry operators conducting space activities internationally may have to comply with host country regulations and licensing. As a result, there is the possibility of dual licensing requirements. A common regulatory foundation can increase interoperability between countries and decrease the potential for unnecessary duplication.

Under FAA regulations, any U.S. commercial space launch or reentry operator launching or reentering outside the United States is required to be licensed by the FAA. In addition, any non-U.S. commercial space launch and reentry vehicles operating in the United States must be licensed by the FAA.

For additional information about the FAA Commercial Space Transportation International Outreach program, contact the Office of Spaceports

Reference Information for Internationals

International Memorandum of Cooperation and Agreements

International Spaceports

Africa, Europe, and Asia

Western Hemisphere

United States

East Asia and Pacific Nations

Publications