The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a directive barring its employees from purchasing stock in SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk. The decision, reported by Politico on July 1, 2026, aims to prevent conflicts of interest as the FAA regulates SpaceX's commercial space launches.
According to the directive, employees involved in licensing or overseeing SpaceX activities are prohibited from holding or acquiring SpaceX securities. The move follows concerns that personal financial interests could compromise regulatory decisions.
SpaceX, which conducts frequent launches from FAA-licensed sites, has been under increased scrutiny as the agency updates its commercial space regulations. The FAA's ethics office confirmed the policy, stating it aligns with federal conflict-of-interest rules.