UK's first vertical launch approved by Civil Aviation Authority

At a glance:

• Rocket Factory Augsburg has received its launch licence from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
• The licence allows for a launch into space from SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands.
• This paves the way for the first commercial vertical launch from UK soil.

The Civil Aviation Authority has granted the first ever vertical launch licence for a rocket heading to space from UK soil. Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) plans to launch from SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands.

The licensing process looked at a number of key factors. This included how safety is maintained, international obligations are met and environmental mitigations are made for RFA’s proposed mission.

The approved launch will see a 30m tall RFA ONE rocket launch northwards from the coast of the Shetland Islands.

Rob Bishton, CEO of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said:

“This is a new era for aerospace and granting the first vertical launch licence from UK soil builds towards a historic milestone for the nation. 

“This licence is the culmination of extensive hard work behind the scenes to put appropriate safety and environmental measures in place before launch.

“Through effective licensing and regulation we are enabling the expanding space sector to reach new heights.”

Jörn Spurmann, Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of RFA said:

“This is a groundbreaking moment for RFA and for Europe’s space industry. Securing the first-ever launch license outside ESA’s established site in Kourou is not just a regulatory milestone – it’s a powerful endorsement of our technical excellence and a turning point for European space innovation.

“This license marks Europe’s bold step toward independent, competitive, and sustainable space access. By enabling cost-effective and flexible launches from European main land, we are laying the foundation for a new era of space exploration and commercialization, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of the global space race.

“Together with the CAA and our partners, we are driving the future of accessible and reliable spaceflight, unlocking opportunities that will shape industries and inspire generations.”

The licence comes with a number of conditions that will need to be met before launch including making sure international agreements with other countries are in place and that they have valid insurance.

Now RFA has received a launch licence the CAA will continue to monitor the company to ensure public safety is maintained in the build-up to, and during launch.

Aviation Minister Mike Kane said:

“This is a landmark moment for RFA, SaxaVord and the UK space sector and moves the dial one step closer towards the first commercial vertical space launch in the United Kingdom.

“The UK is the perfect location to carry out launch operations in a business-friendly environment, with safety at the heart of our Spaceflight Strategy. And as set out in our Plan for Change, we are unlocking jobs and economic growth across the country in untapped industries, making the impossible a reality for future generations.”

SaxaVord Spaceport became the UK’s first licenced vertical launch spaceport last December, and received their range control licence in April 2024. Since then the CAA has been involved in an extensive programme of monitoring the site.