The Federal Aviation Administration on Tuesday revoked the special security conditions formally proposed earlier in the day that FedEx would need to meet to obtain approval to install a laser-launched anti-missile defense system on the plane.
The decision effectively shelved any review of FedEx's airborne missile countermeasures program. FedEx (NYSE: FDX) applied to the FAA for certification in late 2019 to modify the design of the Airbus A321 to include the system. The FAA must issue supplementary certifications for any changes to the approved aircraft design to ensure its airworthiness.
The agency said there was a need for "further internal studies" of the proposed conditions, such as preventive measures to prevent accidental discharges on the ground and flight safety for crew and other aircraft. The company said the decision to postpone the proposal and gather feedback from interested parties was to avoid confusion among the public.
FedEx does not operate the A321, but instead operates a freight business, not a passenger business.
FedEx did not explain the specific reasons it wanted to deploy anti-missile systems, but it is often seen as a way to prevent man-portable missiles that terrorists may use. FedEx appears to be testing the concept rather than seeking a wide range of fleet deployments.
