10-5-2

Debris-Generating Space Launch or Reentry Vehicle Mishaps

JO 7110.65BB, Change 3, effective July 9, 2026 · Official text on faa.gov

A debris-generating space launch or reentry vehicle mishap is an emergency situation in the NAS.

In the event of a debris-generating space launch or reentry vehicle mishap, issue an alert broadcast to all affected aircraft informing them of the mishap, and, if known, the approximate location of the debris fall area. If a debris response area (DRA) has been activated, issue the approximate location of the response area instead.
Example

“Attention all aircraft, due to a space vehicle mishap, possible debris falling in the NAS from approximately Brownsville, Texas, extending east for approximately five hundred miles. Stand by for individual instructions.”
“Attention all aircraft, due to a space vehicle mishap, a debris response area has been activated beginning at approximately Cape Canaveral, extending northeast for approximately three hundred miles. Stand by for individual instructions.”
1. When workload permits, reissue the alert broadcast approximately every 15 minutes.
2. When advised that falling debris is no longer a factor, or the DRA has been deactivated, issue a broadcast to advise all aircraft of this information.
  Example
  
  “Attention all aircraft, falling debris no longer a factor.”
  “Attention all aircraft, the debris response area is no longer active.”
In the event of a debris response area activation:
1. Issue instructions and/or clearances to prevent aircraft from entering the debris response area, unless a higher priority duty already exists.
  Reference
  
  FAA Order JO 7110.65, Para 2-1-2 a, Duty Priority.
2. For airborne aircraft already within an activated DRA:
  1. Assist aircraft to exit the DRA expeditiously;
  2. Do not withhold landing or approach clearances.
3. For airports that underlie an active DRA:
  1. Do not issue departure releases or takeoff clearances;
  2. To the extent possible do not clear aircraft onto the movement area.