Interesting
I think high labor costs play a large role in inflating R&D costs of both Boeing and Airbus airliners, especially in welfare statist Europe. Could Brazilian or Indian aerospace engineers be just as skilled, but cost typically 1/10th or less? I'm just guessing here.
Realistically, could Rutan go "offshore" to Mexico or Costa Rica or somewhere to avoid this costly and lengthy certification process, if he just wants to fly passengers to 100km at their own risk? It's not just the cost, but the time it takes. How many years typically?
I love how mission control is a van!