Policy & Regulation News

FlightGlobal

FAA approves Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser for reentry ahead of a first mission that will test simulated ISS berthing

The FAA has approved Dream Chaser for reentry, a regulatory step for Sierra Space’s spaceplane. Its first mission is planned to include a simulated berthing with the International Space Station, testing a key part of the vehicle’s intended cargo-delivery mission.

Wall Street Journal

High activity

United blocks third-party AI agents from booking flights, citing security, privacy and regulatory risks

United Airlines is restricting unauthorized AI assistants from accessing its website, mobile app and customer accounts to make reservations or conduct other transactions. The carrier says the move protects customer data and addresses cybersecurity concerns and potential conflicts with FAA and Department of Transportation regulations; the restrictions extend across its digital platforms, online travel agencies and aggregators.

AINonline

India to allow fractional aircraft ownership and management from 2027 under new rules

India’s 2026 Bharatiya Vayuyan Niyam will replace the 1937 Aircraft Rules and permit fractional aircraft ownership, aircraft management, and joint or third-party ownership beginning Jan. 1, 2027. The reform changes the framework for owning and managing aircraft in the country.

SpaceNews.com

FAA clears Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser for runway landings at Vandenberg, enabling a first flight planned for spring 2027

The FAA has authorized Dream Chaser to return from orbit to a runway at Vandenberg Space Force Base, alongside granting the spacecraft a reentry license. Sierra Space plans the vehicle’s first flight for spring 2027; one report says the spaceplane is designed to carry 12,000 pounds of cargo.

SpaceNews.com

FAA clears Dream Chaser for runway landing at Vandenberg ahead of first flight

The FAA has licensed Sierra Space to return its Dream Chaser spaceplane from orbit and land on a runway at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The approval clears one of the last regulatory steps before the long-delayed vehicle’s first flight.

ch-aviation

Philippine tourism department seeks to restore turboprop operations at Manila airport

The Philippines’ Department of Tourism is seeking to reverse restrictions on turboprop operations at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. The department says relocating those flights to other airports has increased travel costs and inconvenience, and is pressing for their return.

Via Satellite

Democratic control of Congress puts Trump’s space spending commitments under pressure

An editorial warns that Democrats’ control of Congress gives lawmakers both the authority and the appetite to challenge major spending commitments by President Trump, including those tied to preserving U.S. strategic advantage in space. The dispute raises the prospect of political gridlock shaping the direction and funding of national space priorities.

ch-aviation

US DOT seeks Essential Air Service carriers for Pueblo and Dodge City

The US Department of Transportation is seeking carriers to provide Essential Air Service at Pueblo, Colorado, and Dodge City, Kansas. The announcement puts service to both communities into a carrier-selection process; the available report does not specify proposed routes, schedules, or contract terms.