Aviation Groups Scoping Threat From 5G in C Band

Aviation associations updated the FCC on their look at potential interference to flight operations in the 4.2-4.4 GHz band by expanded use of the nearby C band for 5G. The commercial aviation industry continues testing “to better evaluate the impact of unwanted emissions into radio altimeters,” the groups said. “As radio altimeters provide essential safety of flight information during the most critical phases of flight, it is vital that the testing accurately reflect any potential impact the aircraft will experience during take-off and landing, or when conducting extended low altitude operations, as are common with helicopters,” said the filing in docket 18-122. “This has added complexity to the assessment with the various proposed 5G and other new entrant services, and it is anticipated that the results from this effort will be shared with the Commission in the coming months as the work develops.” The Air Line Pilots Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Aerospace Industries Association, General Aviation Manufacturers Association and International Air Transport Association were among those signing the filing, posted Thursday.