FAA Affirms Readiness of Most US Planes for 5G C-Band Rollout

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that most planes in the U.S. and abroad are prepared to operate in a 5G C-Band environment, after a July 1 deadline passed with “minimal disruptions.”

The FAA said that more than 85% of U.S. domestic and international fleets have updated their equipment to prevent interference from 5G wireless communications, which use the same frequency range as some aviation systems.

The agency said that it worked closely with airlines, aircraft manufacturers, wireless carriers and regulators to ensure a safe and smooth transition to the new technology, which promises faster and more reliable internet access.

The FAA also said that it issued special authorizations and waivers to some operators who needed more time to comply with the new standards, and that it will continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance as needed.

The 5G C-Band rollout has been delayed several times due to concerns from the aviation industry that it could affect the performance of critical systems such as altimeters, which measure the altitude of a plane.

The FAA said that it conducted extensive testing and analysis to determine the safe distance between 5G towers and airports, and that it established protection zones around certain airports where 5G operations are restricted or prohibited.

The agency said that it is confident that the 5G C-Band rollout will not compromise the safety of air travel, and that it will support the innovation and growth of both the aviation and wireless sectors.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, FAA