JCAA advises of temporary airspace restrictions due to SpaceX Starship test launch
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) is advising the public, airlines, aviation stakeholders and the international aviation community that temporary restrictions may be placed on parts of Jamaica’s airspace on Friday.
The measures are linked to planned SpaceX Starship Flight 12 operations from Starbase, Texas, which could affect aircraft flying through the Caribbean region.
In a statement Friday, the JCAA said the rise in commercial space launches has increased the need for temporary safety measures in national and regional airspace. These precautions are intended to reduce risks related to launch operations, possible debris and other flight safety hazards.
According to the JCAA, the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Traffic Organization Space Operations unit advised that the main operational window affecting the Kingston Flight Information Region is scheduled for Friday from 5:30 pm to 7:43 pm, if the launch proceeds. The authority added that if the launch occurs without incident, the affected airspace could reopen within 10 to 15 minutes.
Possible impacts include temporary aircraft rerouting or holding patterns, revised flight paths and departure delays for some flights operating within or through the affected airspace.
As a precaution, Jamaica may also temporarily suspend certain departures until the launch status and airspace availability are confirmed.
The JCAA stressed that the measures are preventative and consistent with internationally recognised aviation safety protocols for commercial space operations.
The authority said it remains in close coordination with the FAA, regional air navigation service providers, airlines, airport operators, the general aviation community and other stakeholders to minimise disruptions while maintaining aviation safety.
Passengers are encouraged to stay in contact with their airlines for updated flight information, while operators and stakeholders should continue monitoring official Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) and operational advisories.
