FCC Grants Amazon Extension on Satellite Launch Deadline

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission granted Amazon an extension on a July 30 deadline to launch 1,600 satellites for its Leo satellite internet service. Amazon had requested the waiver in January, citing repeated delays with three heavy-lift rockets and changes to its satellite design. The commission's June 5 ruling stated that strict adherence would limit service to American consumers.

The waiver removes Amazon's priority status for launches after July 31, 2026. The company must then prove its satellites will not interfere with other operators. The commission kept the original requirement that the full 3,232-satellite constellation be in orbit by July 2029.

SpaceX opposed the extension, stating Amazon had launched only six percent of its approved satellites over six years. Amazon responded that launch scheduling problems, not satellite production, caused the shortfall. Both Vulcan and New Glenn rockets remain grounded after recent anomalies, including a May 29 launchpad explosion. Amazon still plans to begin commercial Leo service later this year.