Virgin Galactic Reported Flight Issue to FAA; Standard Post-flight Review Found An Alignment Pin Detached From The Mothership During Galactic 06 Flight; At No Time Did Detached Alignment Pin Pose Safety Impact To Vehicles Or Crew

Author: Charles Gross | February 05, 2024 06:04pm

Virgin Galactic Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:SPCE) (the “Company” or “Virgin Galactic”) today announced that during routine post-flight reviews following its most recent spaceflight, ‘Galactic 06,’ the Company became aware that an alignment pin detached from the launch pylon of our mothership, VMS Eve, during flight. The Company notified the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on January 31 in accordance with regulations and is conducting a review in conjunction with the FAA.

‘Galactic 06’ was a safe and successful flight that was conducted in accordance with Virgin Galactic’s rigorous flight procedures and protocols. At no time did the detached alignment pin pose a safety impact to the vehicles or the crew on board. Virgin Galactic flights occur in restricted airspace and at specific geographical launch locations that control the hazards to people or structures on the ground. The Company also observed no damage to the spaceship or the mothership.

Posted In: SPCE