An Interview with George C. Nield

Article

“An Interview with George C. Nield,” Interview by Leonard David
Published in Quest Volume: 29 #3 (2022)

Abstract

As the FAA Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation from 2008-2018, Dr. Nield played a vital role in the evolution of the commercial launch and space tourism business. During his 50-plus years aerospace career he has worked with the US Air Force, NASA, the FAA, and in private industry.

On 31 March 2022, Dr. Nield was one of six passengers that took off in a Blue Origin New Shepard (Flight NS-20) from its launch site in Texas, returning to the ground 10 minutes later. The spacecraft reached a maximum speed of 2,236 mph. The other passengers included Gary Lai, a longtime Blue Origin employee who replaced comedian Pete Davidson; investor Marty Allen; SpaceKids Global founder Sharon Hagle; her husband and Tricor International CEO Mark Hagle; and entrepreneur Jim Kitchen.

This April 2022 interview conducted by Leonard David discusses his Blue Origin flight, his views on commercial space, and reflections on his activities, successes, and challenges while leading the commercial space effort at the FAA.

Citation

Nield, George C. “An Interview with George C. Nield.” Interview with Leonard David. Quest: The History of Spaceflight Quarterly 29, no. 3 (2022): 48-58.