SpaceWatch Global
• James Hydzik
The White House has issued a new U.S. National Space Transportation Policy, superseding policies released in 2004 and 2013. The update establishes a revised framework for U.S. space transportation and could shape how international partners, launch providers and regulators interpret America’s role in the sector.
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The White House has issued a new U.S. National Space Transportation Policy, superseding policies released in 2004 and 2013. The update establishes a revised framework for U.S. space transportation and could shape how international partners, launch providers and regulators interpret America’s role in the sector.
A Canadian judge has rejected Volga-Dnepr Airlines’ request for relief from sanctions affecting its Antonov An-124-100. The decision leaves the Russian cargo operator subject to Canada’s sanctions framework and underscores the continuing legal and operational constraints on sanctioned aerospace assets and their operators.
Australia’s competition regulator has authorised Singapore Airlines and ANA’s joint venture covering passenger services between Australia and Japan. The approval remains valid through September 10, 2031, providing both carriers with regulatory certainty for coordinating on this market.
The FAA is seeking industry input as it implements elements of a new space transportation policy, focusing on the development of new spaceports and access to airspace for launch operations. The effort could shape future launch infrastructure planning and coordination between commercial space operators and aviation authorities.
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Delta flight attendants will have to collect airline-provided cups, glasses and other pre-departure service items before aircraft pushback beginning Sept. 1, 2026, under FAA enforcement. Passengers may retain identical drinks brought aboard themselves, provided those items are properly stowed.
The European Commission has closed its antitrust investigation into Pratt & Whitney Canada after the engine manufacturer amended contractual provisions that raised competition concerns in the spare-parts market. The decision removes the immediate regulatory case while underscoring scrutiny of aftermarket access and engine-support agreements.
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A new National Space Transportation Policy directs the Defense Department, NASA and other agencies to identify regulatory, operational, programmatic and technological barriers to faster, more resilient access to space. The policy also calls for expanded launch infrastructure, including evaluating a new federally supported spaceport for heavy-lift vehicles.
Nav Canada is increasing its air traffic control service charges as it seeks to recover a shortfall accumulated during the pandemic. The move will raise operating costs for airlines and other airspace users, with potential implications for carrier economics and network planning in Canada.
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