NASA classifies Boeing's Starliner incident as a Class A accident — the highest severity level

On February 19th, NASA announced the official investigation results regarding the incident during the crewed test flight of the Starliner spacecraft. According to NASA’s classification, this incident is identified as the most dangerous level—Class A accident. This is a serious determination reflecting the severity of the situation faced by astronauts when the spacecraft encounters technical issues.

Investigation Report and Cause of the Incident

NASA reported that the Starliner lost control capability during its approach to the International Space Station, leaving the astronauts stranded on the station. This technical failure caused unintended consequences and significant economic losses to the project. The report detailed the loss of control from the spacecraft’s main control systems, leading to an emergency situation.

NASA’s Class A Accident Classification Standards

To understand the importance of this classification, it is necessary to know that NASA’s Class A accident is the highest level in the risk classification system. An accident is classified as Class A when it involves dangerous situations such as: death or permanent injury to the entire crew, mission failure resulting in direct property loss of $2 million or more, complete destruction of the crewed spacecraft, or unforeseen loss of control.

Significance of the Classification for the Starliner Project

This classification not only acknowledges the severity of the incident but also has long-term implications for Boeing’s Starliner development program. It indicates that technical issues must be thoroughly addressed before the spacecraft can be used commercially. Class A also signals that NASA will require significant modifications and more rigorous testing in the future.