A320
Flight Crew Commercial
Other / Unknown
ATC Issue All Types; Inflight Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
Air Traffic Control Issued Advisory / Alert
Procedure
Flight was in cruise at FL310. ATC informed us of a rocket launch scheduled to occur at our 2:00 and 15 miles. When the launch attempt occurred (the rocket exploded shortly after liftoff); the aircraft was within approximately 5 miles. It seems that the aircraft was routed much closer to the launch site than safety dictates. ATC apparently has more faith in the rocket launch people than is warranted.
Air Carrier First Officer at FL310 reports being routed a little too close to a rocket launch that explodes just after lift off.