As 5G networks become increasingly available for Americans, some airlines are pushing back against the rollouts from major communication companies like AT&T and Verizon. The reason? Airlines are concerned that the C-Band frequencies ranging from 3.7 GHz to 3.98 GHz used by both companies may impact their radio altimeters, which are instruments crucial to safe navigation and landing of planes.
The radio altimeter, or altitude-measuring device, is a key part of an aircraft's navigation system that helps pilots determine the distance between the plane and land below. This information is relayed to ground control systems which then help guide the plane safely during takeoff and landing. Airlines are worried that 5G frequencies will interfere with their radio altimeters, resulting in inaccurate readings that could prove dangerous for flights and passengers.
What are the issues?
The problem with the C-band segment of the radio spectrum is that it operates at frequencies which are dangerously close to those used by air traffic controllers and navigators. This could potentially interfere with aviation signals, leading to an increased risk of accidents and disruption of flights. Additionally, some of these frequencies are in use as part of existing commercial radio networks, meaning they may be harder to repurpose for 5G use without causing interference issues.
To address this issue, several solutions have been proposed, including mobile network operators switching off certain cell towers during peak periods, or using directional antennas that point their signal away from airspace. However, both approaches come with drawbacks, for instance, shutting down cell towers can affect coverage and reliability in each area, while directional antennas require careful alignment and can be costly to install.
In addition, there are raised concerns about the potential health effects of 5G radiation on aircraft personnel and passengers. While no evidence exists that 5G technology poses any risk to human health, some people are concerned about the potential for radio waves emitted by mobile networks to interfere with aircraft navigation systems or communication systems.
At present, these issues remain unresolved and further study is needed to determine the best way forward. In the meantime, both telecom providers and aviation authorities will need to work together to ensure that any potential risks associated with 5G technology can be minimized.
What the FAA is doing
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also raised concerns about C-Band’s mid-band waves as well as possible disruptions from 5G repeaters near airports. To address these worries, AT&T and Verizon have temporarily delayed plans for 5G networks at or near airports.
The FAA is also taking active steps to ensure the safety of all aircraft when flying near airports. As part of their efforts, they are testing radio altimeters to determine which ones will be least affected by 5G deployments near airports. The two models that were approved for use in Boeing and Airbus planes can provide accurate altitude readings even if C-Band signals are released in proximity.
Regarding storms, the agency also issued advice for 787 operators using these altered altimeters. If thunderstorms occur while in flight, pilots should ensure that their altimeter readings remain consistent with their radios’ output. This can help them stay safe during low-visibility landings and takeoffs, as well as in other hazardous weather conditions.
The FAA is also working on retrofitting aircraft with improved altimeters if necessary. This could help pilots measure height and altitude more accurately even in severely low visibility conditions. The agency is conducting research to determine which altimeter models would be most suitable for these purposes, as well as any potential safety risks associated with their usage.
How is this affecting air travel?
The impact of 5G on air travel is still uncertain, and many are questioning how airlines will proceed with their plans to implement the technology. For 5G services to be used safely in aviation, there needs to be a clear understanding of how its presence may interfere with aircraft systems and navigation, as well as strategies to mitigate those risks. The industry must also consider the amount of spectrum dedicated solely to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other aircraft operations within the 5G network environment.
At this time, it appears that planes operating at higher altitudes may be more susceptible to disruptions from 5G signals. To guarantee the security and dependability of aerial navigation, aviation manufacturers have created a plan for 5G deployment and airplane activity to coexist in harmony. This is key for making sure air travel stays secure and reliable.
[Discover more about 5G technology on GlobalSpec]
An agreement between the airlines and wireless carriers is not a cure-all for the potential risks associated with 5G technology, as there are still many unknowns about its impact on aviation. This has caused some international airlines to cancel flights out of an abundance of caution, much to the dismay of travelers who already face flight delays and cancellations due to staffing shortages from the coronavirus pandemic.
The decision of whether to support or oppose 5G, is a complicated one. It should involve a detailed understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated, for an informed decision to be made. Airlines must also consider their capacity for risk, as well as innovation and progress when facing this difficult choice. Due to the complexity of this discussion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer on the viability of using 5G in the airline industry. Whether you believe 5G can be beneficial or detrimental to aviation, a plethora of questions need to be addressed to move forward with it.
