Shuttle

Shuttles are a class of starship within the United Federation, referring to small passenger or cargo vessels designed primarily for planetary travel. Most shuttles are capable of spaceflight, though due to many lacking FTL capabilities, most are used for travel to planetary satellites. Many former automobile and flight companies, including Northrop-Grumman, Boeing, and Ford Motors have adapted to Aeronautics, mass producing shuttles for everyday use.

Most shuttles rely on a fusion generator system, with cores that must be exchanged and registered annually. This provides nearly unlimited power for the shuttle, which utilizes a tremendous level of power for its computer systems.

Some shuttles are equipped with an FTL drive. However, due to the prices of FTL drives and the regulations required to operate one, many opt to use the Gateway system for rapid transit to planets.

Shuttles are openly sold in the market, with numerous payment options available to citizens, especially those using them for commerce. Costs for shuttles is generally surprisingly low due to matter manipulation and manufacturing drones. Performance, luxury, and heavily modified shuttles are usually more expensive, costing as much as a spacefreighter.

## General Information

A common saying is that there is a shuttle for everything. Replacing automobiles and most aircraft, shuttles have drastically improved travel and commerce within the Federation. Most passenger shuttles can carry a pilot, co-pilot, and six passengers, though economy shuttles typically seat two. Shuttles utilize advanced computer 'engines' to properly fly, as most populated regions require all shuttles to fly using highlighted laneways to prevent accidents. All licensed shuttles have an onboard flight assist system that allows for automatic navigation. Though luxury models can have fully interactive AI's with voice feedback, all shuttles have autopilot capabilities.

### Registration Requirements

All shuttles must be registered with the Federal Department of Aerospace Vessels, regardless of make. Unlicensed shuttles are quickly intercepted by FPS officials, who will issue fines and seize the vessel if necessary. Shuttles must follow a list of important requirements in order to maintain valid registration and licensing:

-All aerospace vessels must bear it's name (if registered) and registry number on the sides, roof, aft, and keel.

-All vessels must be inspected annually by qualified DAV licensed facilities.

-All vessels must pass a hull stress test to receive initial registration.

-Vessels equipped with Faster-Than-Light drives are required to undergo additional licensing and registration with the Navy.

### Licensing Requirements

Citizens are eligible for a Private Shuttle Operator License (P-SOL) at the age of 18. Licensing requires 40 hours of initial flight training, both simulated and real-life. Many licensing agencies are available with packages for various piloting jobs. Commercial Shuttle Operator Licenses (C-SOL) are for individuals transporting goods off-planet. C-SOL licenses are regulated in close cooperation to the United Federation Navy, who monitors and inspects trade routes for illegal activity.

Licensed pilots of both classes are required to undergo an additional 8 hour pilot refresher course, twice a year. Shuttle crashes result in the termination of all involved parties licenses, pending investigation.

## Shuttle Types

There is essentially a shuttle for every job. Many shuttles can be equipped with tow hooks, freight holds, additional passenger seating, and fuel transport modules. Many shuttles.

Ford IG-Series: A workhorse, designed for planetary deliveries and freight, or transporting mercenaries to combat zones. The IG Series is the space-age E350, with a massive range of customizations and options available, including freight and exterior repair modules.

JVCKVL (Jackal) Mk.3: Fast, agile, and armored, the Mk.3 is the latest luxury shuttle for the entrepreneur on the go. With a suite of defensive technology, and an onboard AI pilot, the Mk3 is used by many top government officials for its reliable and luxury features. The Mk3 is sold as armed.

UX-60 Raven: An update from the Vectors, this powerful shuttle is a modernized redesign of the retired UH-60 Blackhawk. Featuring a wing and tail mounted quad-jet engine system, short-distance FTL drive, and sealed cockpit for space flights, the Raven is designed to transport military crews to their deployment zone, able to drop troops via rappel or through Rapid Insertion Capsules (RIC Tubes). The UX-60P is designed for use by the Federal Police Service, and includes tactical and prison transport versions, each with lights, sirens, and holographic area control systems.

AX-64 Arrowhead: The retrofit for the Apache attack helicopter, the Arrowhead is quick, armored, and has enough bite to suppress any enemy. With advanced missile detection and defensive capabilities, the Arrowhead is the newest and strongest defensive airship of the Federation military.

Modex Vector V: The Vector Five is the primary starfighter of the Federation Navy and Army.