FAA clears more aircraft for low-visibility landings at airports with 5G C-band

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued new approvals on January 19, 2022 allowing an estimated 62% of US commercial aircraft to perform low-visibility landings at airports where 5G-C communications technology has been deployed.

The administration had also cleared more airports for aircraft with approved altimeters to perform low-visibility landings.

The FAA, however, has made it clear that some airports may still be affected even with the new approvals, and advised passengers to check with their airlines for the most updated flight schedules. 

The FAA also said that it is continuing to work with aircraft manufacturers to better understand how radar altimeter data is used in other flight control systems.  

"We recognize the economic importance of expanding 5G, and we appreciate the wireless companies working with us to protect the flying public and the country’s supply chain,” US transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement.

“The complex U.S. airspace leads the world in safety because of our high standards for aviation, and we will maintain this commitment as wireless companies deploy 5G." 

Aircraft models with one of the five cleared altimeters include some Boeing 717, 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, MD-10/-11 and Airbus A300, A310, A319, A320, A330, A340, A350 and A380 models.

On January 19, 2022, a number of international airlines, including Emirates, Air India, Japan Airlines and ANA All Nippon Airways announced the suspension of some US flights over the 5G rollout. Japan Airlines and ANA All Nippon Airways said in separate statements that Boeing had advised them that 5G signals “may interfere with the radio wave altimeter installed on the Boeing 777.”

A complete list of commercial airports with low-visibility approaches in 5G deployment can be seen here.