Virgin Galactic to study suborbital spaceflights from Spaceport in Southern Italy

Virgin Galactic and Italy's civil aviation authority have signed a cooperation agreement to explore the potential for conducting spaceflights from Grottaglie Spaceport in Southern Italy. The first phase of the study is set to conclude in 2025 and will assess the necessary technical requirements, compatibility with existing airspace, and regulatory frameworks for suborbital flights. The overarching goal is to create a center for commercial suborbital travel in the Mediterranean region. The analysis will not only cover airspace and regulatory considerations, but also the infrastructure and supply chain needed to facilitate multiple flights each week. From a transportation perspective, this initiative highlights a growing trend of integrating space travel into broader transportation networks. As space tourism and suborbital flights gain traction, optimizing existing airspace for these operations becomes crucial. This project could foster regional economic growth, position Grottaglie as an international player in the space industry, and encourage advancements in air traffic management to accommodate both conventional air travel and new spaceflight activities. Such developments may lead to enhanced collaboration between aviation and aerospace sectors, ultimately benefiting both industries and providing new opportunities for innovation and job creation.