FAA in Talks with Telecom Industry Over the Threats of 5G Spectrum

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed in a statement on Tuesday that it is in direct touch with the telecom industry regarding the threats of 5G wireless communications. It said that it would talk about the safety concerns and planned use of the 5G spectrum. Previously, AT & T and Verizon agreed to stop the initiation of C-band wireless service from December 5 until January 2022.

The Ongoing Mitigation Process

Steve Dickinson, an administrator in FAA said at an event held in Washington that the FAA and telecom industry are having very productive discussions and will figure out a solution. He further added that it remains to be seen that what mitigations – whether the adjustments to deployments or the actions that are needed to be taken care of within the aviation industry. As reported previously even the Federal Communications Commission is looking to continue the agency’s successful track records by committing themselves to ensure air safety while at the same time using new technologies to support American business and consumer needs. The sources claimed that FAA and FCC officials have held various discussions about the matter and FAA even had a lengthy meeting on October 14th with the aviation industry. A Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin and an airworthiness directive on the issue were released by the FAA. The bulletin was issued to alert the manufacturers, operators, and pilots about the potential threats that may occur due to the installation of 5G transmitters and other technologies that could hamper the equipment resulting in malfunction. However, wireless trade group CTIA claimed that 5G networks can safely use C-Band spectrums citing various other active 5G networks which are currently being used in 40 countries. They said that 5G networks can be used without causing harmful interference to aviation equipment. Boeing Co, Airbus SE, U.S. airlines, pilots, and others have urged the administration to provide the support required for the telecom and aviation industry to reach an agreement. They further added that it will take some time to implement the FAA’s robust safety guidelines.